Editor-in-Chief: K K Sabu Publishing model: Fully Open Access Days to First Editorial Decision: 49 days Submission to acceptance: 133 days Acceptance rate: 67% Journal Impact Factor (JIF): 0.8 5 year Impact Factor: 0.9 NAAS score (2025): 6.8 Plant Science Today (PST; eISSN: 2348-1900) is a fully open access peer reviewed international journal devoted to publish scientific articles from all areas of plant science to share advances to a wider audience. Four issues are published each year. PST, published by Horizon e-Publishing Group and powered by Empirion Publishers Private Limited, is covered by Scopus, Web of Science, BIOSIS Previews, Clarivate Analytics, NAAS, and many other indexing/abstracting services. Read more on indexing
Copyright and Licence details of published articles Authors who publish with this journal agree to the following terms: Authors retain copyright and grant the journal right of first publication with the work simultaneously licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution License that allows others to share the work with an acknowledgement of the work's authorship and initial publication in this journal. Authors are able to enter into separate, additional contractual arrangements for the non-exclusive distribution of the journal's published version of the work (e.g., post it to an institutional repository or publish it in a book), with an acknowledgement of its initial publication in this journal. Open Access Policy Plant Science Today is an open access journal. There is no registration required to read any article. All published articles are distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC Attribution 4.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/). Authors are permitted and encouraged to post their work online (e.g., in institutional repositories or on their website) prior to and during the submission process, as it can lead to productive exchanges, as well as earlier and greater citation of published work (See The Effect of Open Access).
The potential of bacterial endophytes on orchids
Orchids are one of the most exquisite and diverse plant species in nature. The seeds of orchids are non-endospermic and, therefore, dependent on endophytes for germination, growth, and adaptability. Orchids are prized for their beauty and therapeutic and culinary qualities by naturalists and the general public. Many orchid species are now endangered or vulnerable due to collectors' eagerness to take them. Current studies on orchids have concentrated on isolating and identifying the mycorrhizal and non-mycorrhizal endophytes that either directly or indirectly help orchids to grow, develop, and produce beneficial secondary metabolites. In orchids, bacterial endophytes play an essential role in the formation of mycorrhizae and the stability of relationships between plants and fungi. Endophytic bacteria can grow in orchids by producing phytohormones, doing photosynthesis, fixing nitrogen, promoting the mineral nutrition cycle, forming siderophores, and producing diverse beneficial metabolites to improve biomass production, stress tolerance, and biocontrol of potential phytopathogenic fungal species. This article examines how endophytic bacteria are associated with orchids and their potential growth-promoting abilities.
Copyright (c) 2024 Ansiya Aneesa, Parvathi Rajeevan, Gangaprasad Appukuttannair, Shiburaj Sugathan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Cereal allelopathy as a natural herbicide: A review of mechanisms and weed control potential
Weed infestation remains one of the primary challenges in global crop production, causing substantial yield losses. Conventional reliance on synthetic herbicides raises concerns regarding environmental safety, herbicide resistance and long-term soil health. Therefore, there is an urgent need for sustainable and eco-friendly weed control alternatives. Allelopathy, defined as the biochemical interaction among plants via secondary metabolites, has emerged as a promising natural mechanism for suppressing weed growth. Among various crops, cereals such as rice (Oryza sativa L.), wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), maize (Zea mays L.) and rye (Secale cereale L.) have demonstrated significant allelopathic potential. This review analyses and synthesises recent findings on the allelopathic properties of cereal crops. It evaluates literature describing the types of allelochemicals released by cereals and the plant parts involved, including roots, stems, leaves and decomposing residues. The study also emphasises the mechanisms through which these allelochemicals influence weed suppression and the role of cereal cover crops, root exudates and leaf litter in natural weed control. Evidence shows that cereal crops release a wide range of allelochemicals capable of inhibiting weed seed germination and seedling growth. These compounds are exuded through roots, volatilized from leaves or released during the decomposition of crop residues. The integration of allelopathic cereals into crop rotation and cover cropping systems can reduce weed pressure, minimise chemical herbicide dependency and enhance soil health. Particularly, root exudates and surface residues of rye and wheat have demonstrated consistent weed-suppressive effects. Allelopathy in cereal crops represents a natural and sustainable strategy for weed suppression. By reducing reliance on chemical herbicides, cereal-based allelopathy supports eco-friendly and resilient agricultural systems. To maximise its practical application, further research is required to elucidate allelochemical modes of action, optimise management practices and integrate allelopathy into holistic weed management programs.
Copyright (c) 2026 Israt Jahan Irin, Samia Binta Zaman, Shirin Sultana, Shams Shaila Islam https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Biochemical constituents and health-promoting properties of garden pea (Pisum sativum L.) - A review
Pulses, including peas, have long been essential to the human diet due to their high carbohydrate, protein and other nutrient content. Recently, there has been a lot of interest in pulse consumption's health benefits beyond nutrition. The systematic review focuses on the established and potential health benefits of eating peas, Pisum sativum L. and specifically green and yellow cotyledon dry peas, often known as smooth peas or field peas. Thus, the review regarding biochemical composition, nutritional aspects and health advantages of pea will be beneficial for new researchers. The outer pod comprises around 35-40 % of the pea's weight. Globally, considerable amounts of pea residue are generated, the vast majority of which is used as animal feed. Pea pods not only offer an appropriate quality of dietary fibre, but also supply a significant amount of proteins, carbohydrates and minerals. The pea pods contain significant amounts of polyphenols, including phenolic acids such as 5-caffeoylquinic acid and flavanols such as catechin and epicatechin. Pea pods provide pharmacological advantages, including antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, Reno protective, reproductive-protective, antimicrobial and α-amylase inhibitory action. The trend towards a healthier lifestyle has raised concerns about a fibre-rich diet. The review concludes that pea pods have the potential for usage in the bakery and ready-to-eat product industries. When pea pod powder is added to food products, it has been shown to improve nutritional value and structural integrity. Additionally, suggestions for improving pea use are given in order to support the grain's growth into a useful and sustainable crop. Peas and their constituent parts can be improved further to provide more value and nourishing food materials. This study summarises the relevant literature and available data on the nutritional profile, pharmacological advantages and application in functional meals. Pea pods' prospective applications outside of the food industry have also been detailed. Despite extensive studies on the nutritional profile of garden peas, comprehensive evaluations linking specific biochemical constituents to their health-promoting effects remain limited. Further research is needed to identify bioactive compounds and elucidate their mechanisms for functional food and nutraceutical applications.
Copyright (c) 2026 D K Upadhyay, Ajay Tripathi, Kuldeep Pandey, Priti Upadhyay, Aastik Jha, C N Ram, Ashish Kumar Singh, Anil Kumar, Sanjeev Singh, M K Maurya, P K Dalal https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Integrated strategies against biotic and abiotic stress: A physiological and molecular roadmap for sustainable food security
Global agriculture faces the dual challenge of increasing food production amidst accelerating climate change. This review hypothesizes that an integrated understanding and management of the complex interplay between biotic (e.g., pathogens) and abiotic (e.g., salinity, drought) stresses is fundamentally more effective than addressing each stressor in isolation. The urgency of this investigation is underscored by the critical need for resilient crops capable of withstanding multiple, concurrent environmental challenges. Through a critical review of existing literature, we explore the interconnected physiological and molecular mechanisms governing plant responses to combined stresses, focusing on the crosstalk between defense signaling pathways, metabolic regulation and antioxidant machinery. This reveals a significant knowledge gap in studies addressing the synergistic or antagonistic outcomes of co-occurring stresses. This review presents a breakthrough by revealing overlooked interdisciplinary connections, paving the way for integrated management strategies that merge advanced plant breeding (e.g., CRISPR-Cas9), bio stimulant application and precision agriculture. Key business opportunities lie in developing "smart" cultivars and inputs that respond effectively to environmental cues. Future research should focus on translating molecular insights into economically viable field applications. We conclude that this integrated approach is the cornerstone of achieving sustainable food security.
Copyright (c) 2026 Fatima K K Alasadi, Anaam Jaly Ethbeab Al-hecheemi, Sabreen H Hussein, Balqees H AL-Musawi, Nahlah J Hussein, Zainab A Abdu Zahra, Dhiea M Alnessrioy https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Evaluation of hydrogels for plant preservation, conservation and growth
Climate change, water scarcity, salinity, extreme temperatures, urbanization and the degradation of soils used for cultivating plants and crops pose multiple challenges to agricultural lands, the most significant being water scarcity and soil degradation. Faced with this situation, alternatives are being sought to enable the rational use of water. Among the sustainable alternatives to solve this problem is the use of hydrogels, which improve water retention, act as gradual nutrient releasers that enhance nutrient absorption and availability and promote crop growth and yield. They help alleviate water stress and provide a viable solution to water scarcity in plants and crops. This review provides a comprehensive, critical and objective overview of the use of hydrogels in sustainable agriculture as an innovative solution to climate change, soil degradation and water scarcity. It also highlights the benefits of hydrogels in water retention, nutrient release, plant and crop performance and hydraulic stress mitigation, adopting an ecological perspective. Furthermore, it summarizes the most recent advances research reported in the Elsevier and Google Scholar databases, emphasizing the most relevant findings related to the application of hydrogels in sustainable agriculture.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ana Jazmin Montes Hernandez, Yadira Karina-Reyes-Acosta, María Cristina Ibarra Alonso, Carlos Andrés Covarrubias Gordillo, María Guadalupe Neira Velazquez, Rosa Idalia Narro Céspedes https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Comprehensive review of the red palm weevil: Invasion biology, distribution and management strategies
The red palm weevil (Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (Olivier)) is one of the most destructive pests of palm trees worldwide, with severe ecological and economic impacts. This review synthesizes current knowledge on its invasion history, global distribution, host range, biology and damage mechanisms, while assessing advances in detection, monitoring and integrated pest management (IPM). Since its first record in India in 1790, human-mediated trade of infested palms has facilitated its spread across Asia, the Middle East, North Africa and Europe, with Oman reporting infestations since 1993. Temperature, humidity and other environmental factors strongly influence its lifecycle and dispersal, often enabling hidden infestations that remain undetected until irreversible damage occurs. Conventional management approaches primarily insecticides face limitations due to resistance, environmental risks and high costs. Recent advances in eco-friendly biological agents, pheromone trapping, RNA interference, remote sensing and artificial intelligence (AI) offer promising pathways to strengthen IPM frameworks. Case studies in the Gulf highlight both successes and persistent challenges, particularly in farmer participation, surveillance systems and cost-effective implementation. Future directions should prioritize reliable early-detection technologies, predictive modeling of pest distribution under climate change, enhanced quarantine measures and the integration of AI- and Internet of Things (IoT)-based monitoring tools. A coordinated regional strategy, supported by sustainable policies and farmer engagement, is critical to reducing the global threat of red palm weevil (RPW).
Copyright (c) 2025 Mohammed Alaufi, Amna Al Ruheili, Malik M Al-Wardy, Khalifa M Al-Kindi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Pharmacological efficacy and therapeutic properties of selected Ayurvedic medicinal plants: A scoping review
Ayurvedic medicinal plants have long been used for health promotion and disease management. This article explores the pharmacological efficacy and therapeutic properties of six widely used Ayurvedic herbs: Withania somnifera L. (Ashwagandha), Mucuna pruriens (Kapikachu), Sida rhombifolia (Atibala), Cyanthillium cinereum (Sahadevi), Tinospora cordifolia (Guduchi) and Glycyrrhiza glabra (Yashtimadhu). Each of these plants possesses unique bioactive compounds that contribute to their pharmacological effects. Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) is well-known for its adaptogenic, neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties. Mucuna pruriens (Kapikachu) exhibits neuroprotective, aphrodisiac and anti-Parkinsonian activities due to its high L-DOPA content. Sida rhombifolia (Atibala) demonstrates anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and hepatoprotective effects. Cyanthillium cinereum (Sahadevi) is valued for its anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties. Tinospora cordifolia (Guduchi) is a potent immunomodulator with anti-diabetic and hepatoprotective actions, while Glycyrrhiza glabra (Yashtimadhu) is widely used for its gastroprotective, anti-ulcer and anti-inflammatory effects. This review highlights their pharmacological mechanisms, therapeutic applications and potential integration into modern medicine. Further clinical research and pharmacological investigations are essential to establish their efficacy and safety in contemporary healthcare systems.
Copyright (c) 2026 Pradeep K, Shamina S, Anjali K S, Maneesha K M https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Environmentally friendly agronomic strategies for managing abiotic stresses in crops
Most of the agricultural land undergoes abiotic stress, which can significantly reduce crop production both qualitatively and quantitatively. Numerous abiotic stressors, including temperature stress (heat and cold), salinity, drought, heavy metal contamination, nutrient deficiency or toxicity have negative impact on crops and limit their productivity and quality. Understanding the mechanisms of major abiotic stressors and their negative impacts on crop yield helps to improve crop resilience and productivity through agronomic management. Biochar, kaolin, super absorbents, seaweed extracts, yeast extracts and nanoparticles are the promising environment friendly agronomic approaches that can mitigate the negative effects of abiotic stresses on crops and improve their productivity. This review mainly focuses on different abiotic stressors, their impacts on crop productivity and environment friendly management strategies.
Copyright (c) 2026 Farzana Mustafa Era, A K M Aminul Islam, Nazmun Naher Priya, Ummey Robaiyat Afroza Toshi, Fahmida Akter, A K M Mominul Islam https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Potential of natural dyes from non-traditional flowers for textile application– A comprehensive review
Environmental degradation caused by textile industry effluents drastically damages aquatic ecosystems and groundwater tables by increasing biological oxygen demand (BOD) and chemical oxygen demand (COD). The synthetic dyes used in textiles are carcinogenic and mutagenic in nature and pose several risks to human health. This review discusses the use of natural dyes from non-traditional flowers as alternatives to synthetic textiles dyes. Non-traditional flowers are underutilized species that are not widely cultivated and their use has not been fully explored. Since flowers are diverse in color, they can be utilized for dye extraction to produce various shades. The literature review provides a list of non-traditional flowers that can be used as textile dyes along with advanced extraction methods. Proper characterization and toxicity analysis are essential for natural dyes after extraction, prior to their application in textiles to confirm the absence of heavy metals. The application part addresses advanced substrate pretreatment and the use of mordants to fix the natural colours to the fabric. The use of bio-mordants is an emerging technique in terms of the environment, which is related to floral dyes. Advanced dyeing methods and characterization of dyed fabrics are essential for commercial use. Challenges involved in various processes associated with natural dyes in textiles are listed and need to be addressed by further research in the future.
Copyright (c) 2026 Kamaleshwaran Nanjundapuram Karunamoorthy, Subasni Ganesan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Speed breeding: A technique for early development of plant varieties with high productive capacity and resilience
Speed breeding (SB) has emerged as a technology that helps in developing new, improved crop varieties by dramatically shortening the time period taken for their generation. This is achieved by optimizing environmental parameters such as photoperiod, temperature and soil moisture. This process enables the development of multiple generations per year, thereby speeding up the development of homozygous lines and elite cultivars. Integration with modern molecular tools, including marker-assisted selection (MAS) and genomic selection (GS) with SB, enhances the precision and efficiency of trait selection, leading to faster genetic gain. Despite these advantages, adoption of this technique faces challenges such as infrastructure demands, shortage of skilled personnel, energy requirements and regional disparities in technology access. Addressing these bottlenecks through targeted investment, capacity building and policy support is required to harness SB technique for global food security. This review elucidates the principles, applications and limitations of SB and highlights its pivotal role in modern plant breeding and sustainable agriculture.
Copyright (c) 2025 Gopalina Maity, Siddharth Panda, Epsita Swain, Josee Ukobukeye, Sandeep Kumar Singh https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Microbial fuel cells: A sustainable approach for environmental remediation and green energy generation
Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) are an innovative, eco-friendly bioelectrochemical technology that simultaneously treats wastewater and generates renewable electricity by harnessing the metabolic activity of electroactive microbes. This review surveys advancements in MFC research from 2015 to 2025, highlighting key performance metrics, including power densities that typically range from 100 to 2000 mW/m² and chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal efficiencies between 60 % and 90 % across various organic substrates. MFCs generally consist of an anode chamber, where electrogenic bacteria oxidize organic matter, a cathode chamber that facilitates oxygen reduction and a proton exchange membrane (PEM) separating these compartments. Both pure cultures and mixed microbial communities play vital roles, with electrogenic microbes such as Geobacter sulfurreducens, Shewanella oneidensis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa being particularly important for electricity production. The technology effectively degrades a wide range of pollutants, including heavy metals (HMs), dyes, pharmaceuticals and nutrients, while utilizing waste streams such as domestic wastewater, industrial effluent, agricultural runoff and sludge to generate bioelectricity. Recent advances focus on improving electrode materials, exploring membrane alternatives and optimizing reactor designs to enhance electron transfer efficiency, increase power output and reduce costs. Despite challenges such as low power density, technical complexity, high material costs and scalability limitations, MFCs align with global sustainability goals, particularly the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 6 and 7, offering potential for decentralized wastewater treatment and clean energy generation. Future research should prioritize interdisciplinary collaboration, policy support and industry engagement to bridge current gaps and advance the commercial deployment of MFC technology.
Copyright (c) 2025 Sangili Mohan Hari Krishnan, Thangavel Kalaiselvi, Alagirisamy Bharani, Maragatham Subramaniam, Pooraniammal Rajendran, Gomathi Velu https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Enhancing resistance to finger millet blast using traditional and molecular approaches and outlook for future possibilities
The biodiversity of agricultural pests and diseases has changed significantly due to climate change, posing an immense challenge to sustainable crop production. Finger millet, the third most important millet, is typically cultivated in arid, semi-arid, hilly and tribal provinces across Africa and Asia. However, its growth and yield are severely threatened by blast disease, a destructive condition caused by the filamentous ascomycete fungus Magnaporthe grisea. Because the pathogen produces rapidly evolving virulence genes, blast resistance frequently breaks down, leading to yield instability in all provinces where finger millet is cultivated. Blast disease is estimated to reduce yield by 28 %–36 % on average and in extreme cases, it can result in total crop loss. The disease affects the crop in three progressive stages: leaf blast, neck blast and finger blast. In comparison to leaf blast, the loss is higher in neck blast and finger blast, which drastically decrease grain size and number and in extreme cases, this results in total panicle sterility. In this current review, we emphasized the significance of finger millet and its susceptibility to blast disease, pathogen, field screening technique, genetic resources available at different research organizations involved in the advancement of finger millet in the world, genetic diversity of blast pathogen, conventional and molecular tools like transcriptome analysis and transgenesis that have been employed to increase finger millet's resistance to blast disease and explored prospective future paths for the creation of new blast-resistant finger millet cultivars.
Copyright (c) 2026 Nitin Kumar, Kamaluddin, Vijay Sharma, Isha Ojha, Vijay Kumar Kushwaha, Pragya Jee, Hoshiyar Singh Negi, Ankur Kumar, Shalesh Kumar Singh, Rumana Khan, Vaishali Gangwar, Arun Kumar, Mukesh Mishra https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Traditional uses of Ageratum conyzoides L. (Asteraceae) and its scientific evidence for therapeutic efficacy: A review
Ageratum conyzoides L. (Asteraceae) is a medicinal plant widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions. It is an integral part of traditional medicine in Africa, Asia and South America, where it is used to treat a wide range of diseases, such as diabetes, skin diseases, respiratory disorders, inflammation, burns, wounds, diarrhea, fever, muscle pain, reproductive problems, leprosy and other ailments. This review aimed to consolidate and critically analyze scientific studies on A. conyzoides to assess its therapeutic potential and safety. A narrative literature review was carried out using databases such as Google Scholar, Scopus and PubMed, covering the period from 2023 to 2025. Keywords related to the plant’s traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacological properties and toxicology were used. Only studies providing experimental or ethnobotanical data in English were included. Results show that A. conyzoides contains diverse bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenes, chromenes and phenolic acids. These are associated with anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, anticancer, antioxidant and wound-healing activities. In particular, flavonoids and chromenes contribute to the plant’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, while pyrrolizidine alkaloids may cause hepatotoxicity at high doses. Overall, the available data corroborate many of the traditional uses of this plant. However, the lack of standardized extraction methods and the limited nature of preclinical and clinical data justify further studies to validate its efficacy and ensure the safety of its therapeutic use.
Copyright (c) 2025 Gautier Roko, Martial Nounagnon, Abdoulaye Oury Barry, Nadège Adoukè Agbodjato, Ifeoma Chidebe, Philbert Nzeyimana, Lanan Wassy Soromo, Lamine Baba-Moussa, Martins Emeje https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Modern biotechnological approaches to enhance plant responses to abiotic stresses
Abiotic and biotic stresses are major global challenges that reduce plant productivity, quality and sustainability worldwide. These stresses threaten global food security as the human population continues to grow. These stresses threaten global food supply in the current era of increasing population. Stresses negatively affect the normal growth and development of plants. They are mainly divided into 2 groups: abiotic and biotic stress. In particular, abiotic stresses lead to impaired growth and development of plants, disruption of the photosynthesis process and water regime. High temperatures lead to protein denaturation and decreased enzyme activity, while low temperatures lead to membrane damage. Abiotic stressors are one of the primary elements influencing the growth and production of major agricultural income crops. Environmental elements that cause physiological and biochemical pain in plants include salinity, drought, low temperature, heavy metals and chemical pollution. This article examines biotechnological approaches that use modern genetic engineering technologies such as RNA interference (RNAi) and CRISPR/Cas9 systems to improve plant resilience to abiotic stressors. RNAi plays a crucial role in activating plant defence mechanisms by modulating the expression of stress-responsive genes, whereas CRISPR/Cas9 technology allows for the creation of new, stress-tolerant types by introducing precise alterations in the genome. These biotechnologies have significant potential to develop stable, high-yielding and stress-resilient crops. Overall, this review summarizes recent advances in RNAi and CRISPR/Cas9 technologies for improving plant resilience to abiotic stresses.
Copyright (c) 2025 F I Babadjanova, K A Ubaydullaeva, B K Rakhmanov, A A Bolkiev, A N Abdullaev, S A Abdullaev , H N Yusupov, N R Rakhmatova, S O Kushakov , M S Ayubov, Z T Buriev https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Nano-biopesticide: A novel and sustainable approach towards pest and disease management
This article reviews nano-biopesticides as environmentally friendly alternatives to conventional chemical pesticides in modern agriculture. Synthesis, characterization and functional properties of various nanomaterials, including biopolymer-based nanoparticles (NPs) like zein and chitosan, as well as metallic NPs, silver, gold, titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. These nanostructures are more effective against a variety of pests and diseases because of their improved bioactivity, stability and targeted delivery. Safer agricultural practices are promoted by the use of nano-biopesticides, which have several benefits such as lower pesticide dose, less environmental pollution and less damage to non-target species. The review also looks at how certain nanomaterials work, such as by interfering with pest physiology or rupturing microbial membranes, which adds to their effectiveness. Additionally, it assesses the possible harm that NP exposure may cause to ecosystems and human health, highlighting the significance of safety evaluations and regulatory frameworks. The article highlights recent developments in nanotechnology, such as green synthesis approaches, to provide environmentally sustainable pest management options. Despite their promise, challenges such as cost, scalability and long-term environmental impacts require further investigation. In order to enhance nano-biopesticide formulations, guarantee safety compliance and make it easier to incorporate them into sustainable pest control programs, the prospects section emphasizes the value of multidisciplinary collaboration. Overall, nanotechnology holds potential to revolutionize pest control by offering highly effective, safe and sustainable alternatives that support integrated pest management and agricultural sustainability.
Copyright (c) 2025 Jitendra Singh, Atin Kumar, Nilotpal Das, Kamlesh Kumar Yadav, Rohit Kumar, Shubham, Sharad Sachan, Sneha Gupta, Sunil Kumar, Sayantika Bhattacharya, Paritosh Nath, Sonali Kokale https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
A synopsis of Trichoderma viride bioformulation: Mass production techniques, methods of farm applications, challenges, limitations and future perspectives
Sustainable agriculture stives to enhance crop productivity while minimizing environmental degradation, emphasizing the need for eco-friendly and effective alternatives to synthetic agrochemicals. Biological control has been proven to be an effective substitute for synthetic chemicals. Among biocontrol agents (BCAs), Trichoderma viride has emerged as a well-established biocontrol fungus with multifaceted roles in plant disease management and growth promotion. This review aims to systematically evaluate biology, mechanisms of action, mass production technologies and field application methods to T. viride, highlighting its limitations and future research prospects. By consolidating and critically analyzing scattered information, this work seeks to identify knowledge gaps that can guide the development of improved formulations and practical usage strategies. Overall, T. viride demonstrates remarkable potential as sustainable bioresource for integrated disease management, improved soil health and environmental stewardship, although its commercial success depends on advances in formulation stability, contamination control and strain selection.
Copyright (c) 2025 Adesh Kumar, Aman Raj, Ankit Kumar, Sunil Kashyap, Deepak Panwar, Jayant Garg https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Clonal propagation for sustainable production in papaya: A review
Papaya (Carica papaya L.) is a dicotyledonous, polygamous fruit crop bearing staminate, pistillate and hermaphrodite flowers and valued for its ability to produce fruits year-round. Despite its economic significance, conventional seed propagation is constrained by variability in sex expression, yield and fruit quality, largely attributed to the crop’s inherent heterozygosity. These challenges hinder the production of uniform and true-to-type planting material, limiting the efficiency and predictability of commercial cultivation. Clonal propagation has emerged as a promising alternative, enabling the rapid multiplication of genetically uniform, disease-free plants while reducing reliance on natural seed resources. Its use of controlled environments minimizes land requirements, conserves elite germplasm and supports consistent plant quality, making it a more sustainable and scalable approach for papaya production. Asexual techniques such as cuttings, grafting and micropropagation not only address the limitations of seed-based propagation but also facilitate the preservation of desirable traits essential for industry advancement. This review synthesizes current knowledge on these clonal propagation methods, evaluating their advantages and constraints. Additionally, recent advancements, including optimized somatic embryogenesis protocols, bioreactor-based multiplication and improved acclimatization strategies, have further enhanced the efficiency, reliability and commercial viability of clonal papaya production.
Copyright (c) 2025 Shalini C, Kavitha C; Ganga M, Kumar K K, Babu Rajendra Prasad, Manoranjitham S K, Auxcilia J https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Relative abundance and population dynamics of chilli thrips Scirtothrips dorsalis (Hood) (Thripidae:Thysanoptera) and its correlation with weather parameters
Thrips, particularly Scirtothrips dorsalis (Hood) (Thripidae: Thysanoptera), are major sucking pests of chilli, with their populations varying throughout crop growth period depending on seasonal conditions. Field experiments were carried out during the rabi and kharif seasons of 2024 in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu to study the population dynamics of susceptible and resistant chilli plants about weather parameters. In the rabi season, thrips infestation began in the second week of January and continued till March 2024. The peak population was recorded during the flowering stage in the 6th Standard Meteorological Week (SMW), with 4.73 thrips per three leaves in the susceptible entry IC-537583 and 2.73 thrips in the resistant IC-344364 at 75 days after transplanting (DAT). The associated weather conditions included 32 °C maximum temperature, 22 °C minimum temperature, 84 % maximum relative humidity, 41 % minimum relative humidity, 5.0 km/h wind speed, no rainfall and 4.07 sunshine hours. The thrips population declined at crop maturity, with 3.53 thrips in IC-537583 and 1.87 thrips in IC-344364. During the kharif season, initial thrips populations were recorded at the 28th SMW, peaking at the 32nd SMW, with lower populations of 3.73 thrips in IC-537583 and 1.33 thrips in IC-344364, primarily due to heavy rainfall from July to September. Correlation analysis showed that thrips incidence was positively correlated with maximum temperature, sunshine hours and wind speed in the first season. In contrast, minimum temperature, rainfall and relative humidity (both maximum and minimum) had a negative correlation. In the second season, maximum and minimum temperatures, maximum relative humidity and sunshine hours positively influenced the thrips population, whereas minimum relative humidity and rainfall had a negative impact. Multiple regression analysis accounted for 73 % and 64 % variation in thrips population during rabi and 64 % and 48 % during kharif.
Copyright (c) 2025 T Rakesh, N Chitra, M Murugan, R P Soundararajan, M Kavitha, D Uma https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Morphological and quality variability of white wine grape (Vitis vinifera L.) varieties under Pune conditions
This study evaluated the ampelographical and bunch characteristics of 19 white wine grape varieties (Vitis vinifera L.) grafted on Dogridge rootstock at the National Active Germplasm Site, National Research Centre for Grapes, Pune, during 2023-24. The experiment was conducted on completely randomized block design comprising five vines per replication and three replications per cultivar. The results of the study revealed significant variability in the morphological characteristics of white wine grape varieties. The young shoot tip's opening with a high CV of 37.86 %, indicating substantial variation. The highest variability was observed for berry shape (CV 58.66 %) and berry color (CV 62.09 %), highlighted the diverse phenotypic traits among cultivars. Parameters such as bunch compactness and formation of seed showed lower variability, suggesting more consistency in these traits. Most cultivars had fully open young shoot tips. Tendril distribution was predominantly found sub-continuous, with unified tendrils. Young leaves were found mainly green colored with bronze spots (7). All cultivars exhibited bark peeling. The shoot attitude was primarily erect. Most mature leaves had large blades and pentagonal shapes. Berry density in bunches was generally compact, with round berries being the most common shape. Berry skin color was often green-yellow and all berries lacked anthocyanin coloration in the mesocarp. Time to bud burst ranged from 8.7 to 12.7 days after fruit pruning. Full bloom stage occurred between 34 and 44 days after fruit pruning. Flowering lasted 3.3 to 6.7 days. Veraison occurred from 95 to 114.67 days after fruit pruning and physiological berry maturity ranged from 122 to 147 days after fruit pruning. The results showed a range of correlations among various traits. Pruning biomass had a moderate positive correlation with 50 berry weight and berry skin thickness. Bunch weight showed strong correlations with bunch length and bunch width. TSS was negatively correlated with bunch weight and berry skin thickness. Total acids had a high positive correlation with malic acid. Ethanol content was positively correlated with TSS.
Copyright (c) 2025 Praveen Kumar Ausari, R G Somkuwar, P S Gharate, Nilima Gobade, P B Kakade, P S Karande https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Comparative evaluation of antimicrobial activity of Solanum torvum plant extracts against Ralstonia solanacerum
Ralstonia solanacearum is a major bacterial pathogen that causes wilt disease, leading to yield losses of up to 90 % in solanaceous crops such tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), brinjal (S. melongena), potato (S. tuberosum), chili (Capsicum annuum). This study investigated the antibacterial potential of Solanum torvum (S. torvum) plant extracts against this pathogen. Extracts from the root, stem and fruit were evaluated for their antimicrobial activity. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis of the root extract revealed several bioactive compounds, including Oxirane, Decon-1-ol, 1-Cyclo Azopropyl and Pentadecanoic acid, which confirm its antimicrobial effects. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of the root and leaf extracts ranged from 7.5 mg/mL to 10 mg/mL, indicating strong antibacterial activity. The root extract also demonstrated a lethal time (LT50) of 6.6 hr, confirming its effectiveness against R. solanacearum. Furthermore, the extract exhibited biofilm-inhibitory activity, with an IC50 value of 37.03 mg/mL, suggesting its ability to prevent bacterial colonization and biofilm formation.
Copyright (c) 2025 Manoj P, Abhai D, Rachel Y Z, Manushree V https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Morpho-physiological differences and responses to source-sink manipulation in Aus rice varieties
Rice is the staple food crop of Bangladesh, playing a critical role in national food security. This study investigated the morpho-physiological traits and the impact of source-sink manipulations on grain yield in four rice varieties Binadhan-14, Binadhan-19, China IRRI and Kalihatta under field conditions. Various treatments, including partial spikelet and flag leaf removal at different growth stages, were applied to assess their effects on yield components. Among the tested varieties, Binadhan-19 exhibited the highest grain yield under normal conditions, attributed to a greater number of grains per panicle and fewer sterile spikelets. Source-sink manipulations revealed that spikelet removal significantly increased individual grain size and weight, indicating that yield was sink-limited. Conversely, flag leaf removal reduced grain size and weight, emphasizing the importance of source strength for grain filling. These findings highlight that grain yield in rice is co-regulated by both source activity, sink capacity and strategic manipulation of these factors could be a promising approach in breeding programs aimed at enhancing rice productivity.
Copyright (c) 2026 Md. Babul Akter, Sifatun Tasbih Prokriti, Md. Sohel Rana, Afia Sultana, Nazmun Nahar, Ahmed Khairul Hasan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Effect of mudpress as organic fertilizer on selected soil properties and yield of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.)
This study aimed to evaluate the nutrient composition of an organic fertilizer derived from sugarcane sludge (mudpress), its impact on selected soil properties and efficacy in improving cowpea yield. The study was conducted at the College of Agriculture, Isabela State University, San Mariano campus, from February to April 2017. The organic fertilizer was a mixture of mudpress, poultry manure and carbonized rice hull in a 6:3:1 ratio. The efficacy of this fertilizer on cowpea was evaluated through treatments: 20-40-45 kg nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium (NPK) ha-1 as per the recommended rate, 20 bags of organic fertilizer ha-1 and combinations of organic fertilizer with full and half rates of inorganic fertilizer, with the untreated plants that served as the control. The organic fertilizer contained substantial amounts of NPK, which significantly impacted soil pH, organic matter content and microbial count. The combination of organic fertilizer with full and half rates of inorganic fertilizer resulted in the highest cowpea yields, ranging from 5.80 to 5.86 t ha-1. These results demonstrate the effectiveness of organic fertilizer in improving soil quality and enhancing crop yield, highlighting the potential for agricultural waste to be transformed into productive resources. The findings promote efficient management and utilization of agricultural wastes, providing a sustainable solution to environmental concerns while enhancing agricultural productivity. The technology and data generated can support organic agriculture initiatives (RA 10068) and solid waste management (RA 9003), benefiting researchers, organic advocates and farmers in the Philippines.
Copyright (c) 2026 Raphy A Sugue https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Performance of grafted tomato using rootstocks of different eggplant cultivars
This study examined grafting as an agronomic strategy to enhance the productivity of hybrid tomatoes cultivated in open-field conditions, with a particular focus on improving fruit size, weight and overall yield. The experiment employed a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replicates to ensure robust and statistically valid results. Five treatments were evaluated: (T1) non-grafted tomato, (T2) tomato grafted onto wild eggplant (red), (T3) wild eggplant (green), (T4) open pollinated variety (OPV) eggplant and (T5) hybrid eggplant. Key performance indicators measured included the number of fruits per plant, average fruit size and total yield per treatment. Results showed that plants grafted onto wild green, OPV and Hybrid eggplant rootstocks consistently produced a higher number of fruits compared to the non-grafted control. In terms of fruit size, both wild green and wild red eggplant rootstocks yielded larger fruits, indicating their strong potential for enhancing marketable quality. Furthermore, the highest total yields were obtained from tomatoes grafted onto wild green and hybrid eggplant rootstocks, suggesting their suitability for maximizing production efficiency. These findings highlight that the selection of appropriate rootstocks, particularly wild green and hybrid eggplant, can significantly improve hybrid tomato performance. Beyond productivity gains, grafting offers added benefits such as improved plant vigor, enhanced tolerance to soil borne diseases and greater resilience to environmental stresses. As such, this technique represents a practical and sustainable approach for commercial tomato growers seeking to increase yield and profitability while supporting long-term agricultural sustainability.
Evaluation of health hazards linked to heavy metal concentrations in date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) fruits from Basrah, Iraq
This study aims to determine the levels of heavy metals, namely lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd) and chromium (Cr), in date palm fruits (Barhi cultivar) grown in the Basrah Governorate, Iraq. It also assesses the health risks associated with the consumption of date fruits, including estimated dietary intake (EDI), hazard quotients (HQ), hazard index (HI) and cancer risk (CR) indices. Fruit samples were collected from four sites, namely, Al-Qurna, Shatt Al-Arab, Abu Al-Khaseeb and Zubair, during different ripening stages, such as Khalal (Bisr), Rutab and Tamar. Results demonstrate that the concentrations of heavy metals in date palm fruits increased as the fruits ripened. Moreover, the mean values of Cd and Cr were below the maximum allowable levels (MAL) set by WHO/FAO in all sites and at all ripening stages. In contrast, the Pb levels exceeded the MAL at all sites and ripening stages. The results of the health risk assessment indicated that the EDI of Pb, Cd and Cr through date consumption (100 g per person per day) was below the provisional maximum tolerable daily intake across all examined sites. The HQ and HI values were below 1 except for HI in the Zubair site. The CR index confirmed that no carcinogenic threats are associated with the consumption of date palm fruits in Basrah Governorate. This study provides valuable insights for improving food safety and protecting public health in Iraq.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ali S Mahdi, Hazim M Ali, Firas M Al-Hamoud, Osama N Jaffer, Khairullah M Awad https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Drought-induced regulation of chalcone synthase activity in cress (Lepidium sativum L.) leaves
Drought is a major abiotic stressor that severely limits plant growth and development. In response, plants often enhance the biosynthesis of flavonoids, key secondary metabolites that contribute to growth regulation and stress adaptation. This study investigated the drought tolerance mechanisms of cress (Lepidium sativum) by examining the effects of varying drought durations on growth parameters, stress severity and associated metabolic responses. The results showed that drought stress significantly impaired plant growth, with shoot and root lengths reduced to 0.7- and 0.8-fold of control levels, respectively, after 4 days of water deficit. Prolonged drought (12 days) further decreased relative water content (RWC), reaching 0.8-fold in shoots and 0.6-fold in roots. Stress severity, assessed by relative electrolyte conductivity, exhibited a nine-fold increase after 12 days, indicating considerable membrane damage. Biochemical analyses revealed a time-dependent increase in total flavonoid content, which rose by 1.3-, 1.6- and 1.4-fold after 4, 8 and 12 days of drought exposure, respectively. Anthocyanin content increased modestly by 1.6-fold after 12 days of drought. Chalcone synthase (CHS) activity increased markedly, by 1.9- and 2.7-fold after 4 and 8 days, respectively, indicating its early induction as a critical drought response. Overall, these findings underscore the importance of CHS activation and flavonoid accumulation in enhancing drought resilience in cress. Further studies should focus on identifying individual flavonoid compounds and clarifying their role in maintaining membrane integrity under prolonged drought conditions.
Copyright (c) 2026 Haya H Alsukkar, Khalid Y Alsharafa, Tahani J Hijazin https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Marker-assisted introgression of turcicum leaf blight (Ht1) resistant gene into northeastern Himalayan region maize landrace
The local people of north-eastern Himalayan region (NEHR) cultivate the maize landraces and consume them as food. These landraces possess desirable agronomic traits but are susceptible to turcicum leaf blight (TLB) disease caused by the fungus Exserohilum turcicum. Thus, we aimed to screen maize landraces under field conditions and introgress the Ht1 gene into the susceptible landrace. Screening of four landraces against TLB was conducted under artificially inoculated field conditions during Kharif 2023, with two standard checks. Disease reaction rating on a scale of 1-9 was used to calculate the percent disease index (PDI) values of landraces. Among the four landraces, two - LMC-15 and LMC-16 - were identified as susceptible, with a disease rating of 8, while LMC-4 and LMC-7 received a rating of 6 and were categorized as moderately susceptible. The F1 generation was produced during the spring season of 2024 through a cross between the donor parent BML-6 and the susceptible recurrent parent LMC-15. The true F1 plants were evaluated using a SSR marker umc1042, which is linked to the TLB resistance gene Ht1. Genotyping of 120 F2 plants was performed using the umc1042 SSR marker. This marker exhibited a segregation ratio of 27:61:32 in the F2 population. The chi-square value for the genotype was 0.45, which is below χ2 (p ≤ 0.05) and therefore considered non-significant, indicating a good fit to the expected 1:2:1 ratio. Overall, the findings confirm that MAS is an efficient and reliable approach for introgressing Ht1 into susceptible maize lines.
Copyright (c) 2025 Rahul Singh Chauhan, Pramesh Khoyumthem, Renuka Th., Pushparani Senjam, Nabakishor Nongmaithem, Bhagya Shree, Shubham Kumar, Vaibhav Chauhan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Growth performance of Muscovy ducks fed home-mixed diets supplemented with varying levels of Hagonoy (Chromolaena odorata) leaf meal
Hagonoy (Chromolaena odorata) is an abundant yet underutilized plant in the Philippines with potential as an alternative feed ingredient for poultry production. This study was conducted at Isabela State University from 5th January 2025 to 5th March 2022, to evaluate the effects of Hagonoy leaf meal (HLM) on duck growth, feed efficiency and economic viability, to determine the optimal inclusion level for improved weight gain, feed utilization and profitability. A Completely Randomized Design (CRD) was employed using four dietary treatments with 10 ducks per replication: T1 (Control – home-mixed feeds [HF] + 0 % HLM), T2 (HF + 2 % HLM), T3 (HF + 4 % HLM) and T4 (HF + 8 % HLM). Parameters measured included weight gain, feed consumption, feed conversion ratio (FCR), dressing percentage, organ weights, hematological values and economic returns. Results showed that ducks supplemented with 4 % HLM (T3) consistently achieved the highest growth performance, with a final body weight of 1178.50 g at eight weeks, the most efficient feed conversion ratio and the highest return above feed and duckling cost (Php 2164.24; 34.24 %). Feed consumption and dressing percentage were not significantly affected, although higher liver and pancreas weights were noted at 8 % HLM, suggesting possible physiological stress. Moreover, a 4 % inclusion of HLM is recommended as the optimal level for improving growth, feed utilization and profitability in Muscovy duck production without compromising carcass yield or meat quality.
Copyright (c) 2026 Freddie O Libatique, Criscon Bryan S Mondala https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Genetic variability, character association and grain quality assessment in segregating rice (Oryza sativa L.) lines of TUNGA × KPR1
Micronutrient enrichment and desirable grain quality are crucial targets in rice improvement to address malnutrition and enhance consumer acceptance. The present study was conducted to evaluate the performance of segregating lines of cross, Tunga x KPR 1 in an augmented design during Kharif 2022 - 23 at the Zonal Agricultural and Horticultural Research Station (ZAHRS), Mudigere to investigate genetic variability parameters, correlation, direct and indirect effects and grain quality parameters. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed significant phenotypic and genotypic differences for all the studied characters. High values of phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) and genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) were for the number of filled grains per panicle (NFG; 20.39 and 20.03 % respectively). Moderate PCV and GCV values were recorded for grain yield per plant (GY; 16.39 %, 11.29 %) and spikelets per panicle (SP; 15.28 %, 14.84 %). Most of the characters recorded minimal differences between PCV and GCV. The NFG showed high heritability values (96.59 %) and high values of genetic advance as a percentage of mean (GAM; 40.62 %). Filled grains per panicle, productive tillers per plant, spikelets per panicle, tillers per plant and panicle length (PL) showed a positive and significant association with grain yield. A positive direct effect on grain yield was observed for days to maturity (DM), productive tillers per plant, panicle length and filled grains per panicle. The top 10 superior lines from the cross were analyzed for quality parameters such as zinc (35.65 ppm), iron (13.92 ppm) and amylose content (28.20). All three traits, zinc (0.37), iron (0.31) and amylose (0.35) have a weak positive correlation and they were found to be promising and can be used in crop improvement programmes. Entry 44,41 and 12 have outperformed all other lines in zinc and iron content respectively.
Copyright (c) 2025 H M Anil, D Lakshmana, S K Shashikala, H B Mallikarjuna, M Ganapathi, C N Nimish Bhushan, Jyoti I Tondi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Studies on anti-microbial activity of Quisqualis indica L. plant extracts on urinary tract infection causing pathogens
The ornamental plant, Quisqualis indica L. has several pharmacognistic properties. The anti-bacterial activity of the plant extracts against common bacteria causing Urinary tract infections (UTIs) were determined. In this study, Quisqualis Indica L. plant samples were collected during the spring season from Kalahandi District of Odisha. The different solvent extracts of the medicinal plant, Q. indica were used for determining the anti-bacterial activity against human pathogenic micro-organisms isolated from samples of patients having UTIs. In all, urine samples from 110 patients having UTIs were analyzed. Antibiotic susceptibility of gram-positive and gram-negative bacterial isolates was studied. The Molsoft tool was used to identify the drug likeness score of each compound. Escherichia coli was observed in 57 %, Pseudomonas aeruginosa in 17 %, Staphylococcus aureus in 15 % and Klebsiella pneumoniae in 10 % of the samples. Escherichia coli was the most predominant bacteria isolated from UTIs. Seven bacterial strains were used in the study namely Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Streptococcus pyogenes and Acinetobacter baumannii. The extracts of Q. indica have significant anti-bacterial properties against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter baumannii and Streptococcus pyogenes causing the UTIs. The compounds mainly Phytol, Trans-sequalene, Tocoferol, Vitamin-E-acetate and stigmasterol have higher drug likeness scores. Our study has reported the structural configuration of the extracts having higher drug-likeness score with a potential for future therapeutic drug against the UTIs. This study focusses on UTIs and the phytochemical analysis has been evaluated with drug likeness score.
Copyright (c) 2026 Braja Sundar Barik, Shasank Sekhar Swain, R N Padhy, P Sudhir Kumar, Tahziba Hussain, Sanghamitra Pati https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Inquest of climate-smart rice (Oryza sativa L.) genotypes considering multi-trait selection index and genotype-environment interaction at a variable duration of submergence
Submergence is a significant natural disaster that severely reduces rice yield. The research was conducted at Gazipur Agricultural University, involving 48 rice genotypes that were tested under 14 and 21 of Days of Submergence (DS) to identify rice submergence tolerance genotypes based on morpho-physiological characteristics in the F2 population. The experiment employed a split-plot design with three replications. Significant variation was observed in all traits under submergence, with 21 DS showing a greater detrimental effect than 14 DS. The phenotypic coefficient of variance exceeded the genotypic coefficient of variance for all traits, with most traits exhibiting moderate to high heritability (30–60 %). High Genetic Advance (GA) was noted in days-to-maturity (54.02), Plant Height (PH) (61.57) and Plants per Hill (PPH) (87.36). Grain yield showed significant positive correlations with straw yield (r = 0.571**, r = 0.501**, r = 0.516**), Filled Grain per Panicle (FGP) (r = 0.564**, r = 0.425**, r = 0.770**) and PPH (r = 0.729**, r = 0.511**, r = 0.509**) in control, 14 DS and 21 DS conditions. Principal components analysis revealed that five components accounted for 78.45 % of the total variability, with biplot illustrations depicting genotype-trait relationships. A hierarchical-clustering heatmap classified the genotypes into distinct clusters based on the stress tolerance index. The genotypes SR004, SR005, SR006, SR008, SR010, SR012, SR015, SR016, SR018, SR022, SR026, SR030, SR032, SR033, SR034, SR036, SR038, SR039, SR041, SR044, SR045 and SR047 exhibited tolerance under both 14 and 21 DS.
Copyright (c) 2026 Md Tanzil-Ul-Mousuf, Md Abdullah Al Mamun, Apple Mahmud, Mohammad Sharif Raihan, M Abdul Karim https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Genetic evaluation of muskmelon hybrids using performance, correlation and path analysis for yield and quality traits in Kashmir
The present muskmelon hybrid study was carried out during the Kharif season of 2021–2022 in the experimental field of the vegetable science division, SKUAST, Kashmir, Shalimar. The experimental design employed was a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications, evaluating twenty muskmelon hybrids for various quantitative and qualitative traits. Significant genotypic differences were observed across all the traits. Madhusree hybrid exhibited the highest fruit yield per plant (11.52 kg), followed by Tipu-50 (8.63 kg) and Punjab hybrid (7.87 kg). In terms of quality attributes, hybrid VS-8989 demonstrated the highest total soluble solids (TSS) (11.55 °B), followed by Sawarna hybrid (10.58 °B) while highest vitamin C content was found in Mahima (31.55 mg/100 g), followed by Punjab hybrid (31.08 mg/100 g) and Shelf life was longest in LHM-Masti (10.86 days), followed by Madhuraj (10.27 days). The average yield per plant demonstrated a significant positive correlation at both genotypic and phenotypic levels with several yield-contributing traits, including weight of fruit (g), number of fruits/plant, Vitamin C content (mg/100 g), flesh thickness (cm) and fruit length (cm). Path coefficient analysis further revealed that the highest positive direct effect on average yield per plant was observed for the number of fruits per plant, average fruit weight (g), fruit length (cm), flesh thickness (cm), phenol content (mg/g), days to first fruit harvest and internodal length (cm). These traits showed significant positive correlations and high positive direct effects on yield per plant, suggesting that direct selection based on these traits would be effective for yield improvement.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mohd Faruk, Sumati Narayan, Anil Kumar, Arizoo, Harish Kumar, Ishfaq Abidi, Dhaneshvari Arya, Prakash Singathiya, Tazeem F Jafri, Imatiyazahamed Teli, Arjun Singh, Azrah, Raj Narayan, Devesh Kumar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Combination of NAA and BAP significantly enhances plantlet regeneration of Saccharum officinarum L. cv. PSJK 922
This study aimed to optimize callus induction and plantlet regeneration protocols for the commercial sugarcane cultivar PSJK 922. Callus induction from spindle leaf roll segments was performed using Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with 2,4-D at concentrations of 0, 1, 2, 3 and 4 mg/L. Data were recorded on Callus Induction Frequency (CIF) and Callus Fresh Weight (CFW). The best callus with a friable texture and creamy white colour, was subcultured and transferred to regeneration media containing 25 combinations of NAA and BAP, ranging from 0 to 2 mg/L. Plantlet regeneration was evaluated over 14 weeks under controlled conditions. The parameters included plantlet regeneration, number of shoots, number of roots, shoot length, root length and Plantlet Vigour Index (PVI). The results showed that 2,4-D at concentrations of 3 and 4 mg/L were most effective for generating morphogenic callus with high CIF (83.33 %) and CFW (0.3834-0.4541 g). The statistical analysis revealed a significant effect of NAA and BAP combinations on plantlet regeneration (77.33 %, p < 0.047) observed from callus induced with 3 mg/L. In particular, the optimal regeneration medium was found to be 0.5 mg/L NAA and 1.5 mg/L BAP, when using callus induced by 3 mg/L 2,4-D, leading to higher shoot elongation (4.74 cm ± 0.32) compared to most other treatments. The combination exhibited the highest PVI (around 456), which indicates healthy plantlet development and overall quality. Thus, these findings can help optimize tissue culture protocols for elite sugarcane as well as large-scale propagation for accelerating germplasm multiplication and serving as a foundation for genetic transformation of elite lines.
Copyright (c) 2026 Muhammad Hamzah Solim, Ita Dwimahyani https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Synonymy of M. flaviviridis and M. ammaiae under M. wightiana based on morphological evidence
A recent taxonomic study within the genus Miliusa has revealed that Miliusa flaviviridis N V Page, Poti and K Ravik and Miliusa ammaiae Karuppusamy and P S S Richard, both described from the same type locality- Naraikadu Estate, Kalakkad, Tamil Nadu exhibit close morphological resemblance to Miliusa wightiana Hook. f and Thomson. Upon re-examination of live specimens and herbarium materials, including type specimens, it was determined that M. flaviviridis and M. ammaiae are conspecific with M. wightiana. Notably, the original descriptions of M. flaviviridis and M. ammaiae did not provide comprehensive comparisons with M. wightiana. Based on the morphological evidence, we propose that M. flaviviridis and M. ammaiae be treated as taxonomic synonyms of M. wightiana. Photographs illustrating key morphological and taxonomic characters are provided to support the proposed synonymy.
Copyright (c) 2025 Sreejesh K H, G Rajkumar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Sandalwood based agroforestry systems in Bundelkhand region of central India
Sandalwood is one of the world’s high-value tree crops and is native to the southern India. It is fast diminishing in its native forest ranges. However, greater and growing demand for its scented wood oil and wood product is encouraging its cultivation on agricultural land parcels under agroforestry systems. Although the existence of sandalwood in Central India has been reported, particularly in parched Bundelkhand region, its cultivation on agricultural lands is rarely reported. Therefore, a study was conducted to describe the prospects of sandalwood cultivation in the semi-arid Bundelkhand region of Central India. A survey was conducted to identify existing plantations in the region. During the survey, a well-established 15-year-old private plantation comprising trees of different age classes was identified at Deligaon, Jhansi, India. To determine the heartwood formation and wood oil content, twenty matured trees were harvested. The heartwood yield ranged from 5 kg-30 kg per tree, while the oil content varied between 1.7 % to 4.0 %. These results indicated that sandalwood, historically revered as the ‘royal tree’, holds potential to be promoted as a viable household tree in the semi-arid Bundelkhand region. Promotion of sandalwood agroforestry practices in India has multifaceted benefits, as smallholder may get higher farm revenue with low investment and maintenance, enhanced land value, improved ecosystem services (birds, butterflies, bees etc.) besides sequestering considerable amount of atmospheric carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen.
Copyright (c) 2025 K B Sridhar, M N Ramesha, P Lavanya, S B Chavan, A K Handa, A R Uthappa, Amey S Kale, Inder Dev, R P Dwivedi, G Venkatesh, B Narsimlu, A Arunachalam, JVNS Prasad https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Seasonal pattern of pests and predator activity in tomato ecosystem
An investigation was conducted over two consecutive years (Rabi 2023-24 and 2024-25) to study the temporal pattern of insect pests and natural enemies activity and their relationship with weather parameters. The study focused on key pests; fruit borer (Helicoverpa armigera), whitefly (Bemisia tabaci), aphid (Aphis gossypii) and jassid (Amrasca biguttula biguttula) as well as their natural enemies, primarily Coccinellids. The fruit borer was first observed during the 43rd Standard Meteorological Week (SMW) with an initial mean population of 0.06±0.06 larvae per plant, peaking at 3.52±0.42 larvae per plant in the 52nd SMW. Whiteflies first appeared in the 42nd SMW with an initial population of 1.99±0.46 individuals per three leaves, peaking at 15.16±13.38 individuals in the 51st SMW. Aphids were initially recorded at 1.15±1.15 individuals per three leaves during the 42nd SMW, reaching a peak of 5.06±2.08 in the 51st SMW. Jassids emerged during the 42nd SMW with a mean population of 1.48±0.62 individuals, peaking at 6.49±2.71 individuals per three leaves in the 50th SMW. Natural enemies such as Coccinellids were first seen in the 42nd SMW and a peak population (1.99±0.81 individuals per plant) observed in the 49th SMW. Correlation analysis revealed that fruit borer populations were significantly and negatively correlated with maximum (r = -0.787**) and minimum (r = -0.734**) temperatures while positively and significantly associated with morning relative humidity (r = 0.637**). Whitefly showed a significant negative correlation with maximum (r = -0.436*) and minimum (r = -0.549*) temperatures. Aphids also displayed substantial negative correlations with maximum (r = -0.579**) and minimum (r = -0.708**) temperatures and had a strong positive correlation with Coccinellids (r = 0.895**), indicating a predator-prey relationship. Jassids showed a significant negative correlation with evening relative humidity (r = -0.496*), while other weather parameters showed non-significant associations. The multiple regression analysis revealed that maximum temperature (°C), minimum temperature (°C), morning relative humidity (%), evening relative humidity (%), rainfall (mm) together influenced to an extent of 73.50 (R2=0.735), 54.80 (R2=0.548), 85.10 (R2=0.851) and 63.20 (R2=0.632) per cent of fruit borer, whitefly, aphid and jassid population, respectively.
Copyright (c) 2025 Nikki, Sameer Kumar Singh, Kamal Ravi Sharma, Umesh Chandra, Vinod Kumar Dubey, Ankit Rai https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Embryonic toxicology evaluation of citrus fruit (Citrus reticulata and Citrus limonum) peel mediated hydroxyapatite nanocomposite
Nanotechnology is a rapidly evolving scientific field due to advantages such as improved bioavailability, enhanced bioactivity and targeted drug delivery. However, concerns exist regarding its potential toxicity, as nanoparticles can enter the biological systems and induce inflammatory responses, oxidative stress, neurotoxicity and genotoxicity. These risks necessitate comprehensive toxicological evaluations to ensure their safe biomedical use. Green synthesis, particularly using citrus fruit peels, presents an eco-friendly alternative for nanoparticle production by leveraging bioactive compounds to reduce toxicity. This study aimed to assess the embryonic toxicity of citrus fruit (Citrus reticulata and C. limonum) peel-mediated hydroxyapatite nanocomposites, providing insights into their safety and guiding future research toward sustainable nanotechnology applications. Green synthesis of C. reticulata and C. limonum-mediated hydroxy apatite nanocomposites was successfully carried out. The toxicity of developed nanocomposite was assessed using embryonic toxicology evaluation in zebrafish. Stereo microscopic analysis was done for the assessment of morphologic features, developmental stages and potential malformation of zebrafish embryos. At a 24 hr interval, hatching rate and embryonic viability rates were measured. Sublethal toxicity was observed in the zebrafish embryonic toxicology evaluation, with a dose-dependent hatching rate and embryonic viability. Overall, C. reticulata and C. limonum-mediated hydroxyapatite nanocomposites exhibited very low toxicity based on zebrafish embryonic toxicology evaluations.
Copyright (c) 2025 Lakshmi Ajithan S, Dhanraj Ganapathy, Rajeshkumar Shanmugam, Jayasree Anandan, Deepthi S S https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Interaction of phytohormones with the antioxidant and pro-oxidant systems of cotton under salt stress
Despite extensive studies on the physiological effects of salinity in cotton, the combined regulatory roles of phytohormones in modulating the plant antioxidant and pro-oxidant systems under salt stress remain poorly understood. The biochemical responses of cotton plant varieties with different salt tolerances were studied through the exogenous application of phytohormones. The study used cotton plants of Gossypium hirsutum L. species developed by classical cotton breeding (Gulistan and C-4727), two gene knockout cultivars (Porlok-1 and Porlok-4) and two cultivars developed through DNA marker-assisted introgression into local varities (Ravnak-1 and Ravnak-2). Based on the results obtained, the exogenous application of abscisic acid (ABA) was found to alleviate the negative effects of salinity in all varieties. Under laboratory conditions, in saline models with 1 % and 4 % NaCl (sodium chloride), significant biochemical indicators including antioxidant enzyme activities, as well as concentrations of endogenous ABA and proline were observed to increase respectively in Porlok-1, Porlok-4 and Gulistan cotton cultivars. The biochemical resistance of gene knockout cotton varieties such as Porlock varieties to abiotic stresses has been confirmed by molecular studies. When these varieties were compared with unmodified cotton varieties, the modified lines exhibited higher antioxidant enzyme activity and greater synthesis of free proline, reducing sugars and phytohormones, indicating enhanced stress adaptation.
Copyright (c) 2025 K Karomat, A Ali, N Sanjar , K Nigora https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Magnitude of genetic variability and diversity analysis in bottle gourd accessions using agro-morphological descriptors
Bottle gourd, a climbing vine crop exhibits potential genetic variability, offering opportunities for breeding new cultivars thorough characterization and evaluation of accessions. This study aimed to assess the extent of variability, genetic diversity and the relationships among various agro-morphological traits across 17 bottle gourd accessions. The present experiment was conducted at the Vegetable Research Farm, Department of Horticulture, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India during 2020-2021 and 2021-2022. The accessions were organized using a randomized complete block design with three replications. The substantial mean square values observed across all studied traits confirm the presence of adequate genetic variability among the evaluated accessions. The bottle gourd yield per hectare exhibited a highly significant and positive correlation with branch count/vine (0.724*), vine length (0.660*), fruit diameter (0.608*), fruit length (0.525*), fruit weight (0.780*), fruit/vine (0.917*), ascorbic acid (0.890*), soluble solids (0.858*) and yield/plant (1.000*). The highest positive direct effect on fruit yield per hectare was exerted by yield/plant (0.9722) and fruit/vine (0.0221). Principal component analysis demonstrated that 85.90 % of the total variance was contributed by the first three components, in which genotypes were characterized. Through multivariate analysis, the study effectively examined genetic divergence and classified the 17 accessions into five distinct clusters. The highest inter-cluster distance was observed between Cluster II and Cluster IV, highlighting considerable diversity among the accessions within these groups and holding potential for broad enhancements in subsequent crop breeding programs.
Copyright (c) 2025 Anuj Sohi, Vijay Bahadur, Balbir Singh Dogra, Santosh Kumari, Shivali Dhiman, Anjali Kumari https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Impact of Alternaria alternata on the physiological and yield-related traits of Vigna radiata
This study examined the effects of the phytopathogenic micromycete Alternaria alternata on leaf pigments, total water content in leaves, exchange leaf water retention, transpiration rate in the flowering and podding period and yield-related traits in three replicates of mung bean (Vigna radiata) varieties. The chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b and carotenoid contents in leaves were comparatively assessed under infected (spray inoculation) and control conditions during the flowering and podding periods. The results indicated that A. alternata significantly reduced pigment content in most varieties. The Durdona and Andijon-1 varieties exhibited the greatest reduction in pigment content, while Barqaror and Baraka varieties showed the least sensitivity to A. alternata. Infection with A. alternata in mung bean varieties caused a decline in transpiration and water retention, likely due to stomatal closure and tissue damage. However, total water content generally increased, suggesting water accumulation in healthy tissues as a stress response. Regarding yield-related traits, the number of pods per plant, 1000-grain weight and total grain weight were reduced to varying degrees across all varieties under effect of A. alternata compared with the untreated control plants. A significant decline in yield was notably observed in the Durdona, Zilola and Marjon varieties. This study, for the first time, demonstrates the differences in physiological responses among mung bean varieties by jointly examining the effects of A. alternata on leaf pigment content, water exchange and yield across various cultivars. The findings obtained serve to protect mung bean and other leguminous plants from the influence of A. alternata in agriculture and increase their yield.
Copyright (c) 2025 Tillaboyeva Dano Nazm qizi, Matniyazova Hilola Xudaybergenovna, Nosirov Iqboljon Qobiljon o‘g‘li, Ro‘zmatova Sharofat Toshmatjonovna https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Soil carbon dynamics driven by bamboo litter decomposition in the Western Ghats: Implications for ecosystem carbon cycling
Bamboo ecosystems, known for their rapid biomass production and high carbon sequestration potential, are key contributors to ecological functioning. This study delves into the intricate carbon dynamics within five distinct bamboo species–Bambusa balcooa, Dendrocalamus strictus, D. giganteus, D. brandisii and Guadua angustifolia. This research was conducted in the Kattippara village of the Thamarasseri block within the biodiversity-rich Western Ghats of Kozhikode district, Kerala and it investigates variations in three key ecological processes: soil organic carbon (SOC) storage, litterfall-driven organic matter flux and the decomposition and reintegration of litter into the soil. Our findings reveal significant interspecies differences in annual litterfall–a crucial pathway for carbon input into the soil–ranging from 4.575 to 6.828 Mg ha⁻¹ yr⁻¹, with D. strictus demonstrating the highest litter productivity. Furthermore, the rate at which this organic matter is broken down and nutrients are released back into the ecosystem, as indicated by litter decomposition constants (k ranging from 0.2173 to 0.2858 month⁻¹), also varied significantly across the studied species. The organic carbon content of the upper soil layer (0-15 cm) exhibited variations, suggesting a strong link to both the quantity and quality of litter inputs and their decomposition dynamics. This comparative ecological assessment provides critical insights into the functional diversity of different bamboo species and their respective contributions to carbon cycling within the landscape. The study underscores the importance of informed species selection for afforestation projects and carbon sequestration strategies aimed at maximizing ecosystem benefits.
Copyright (c) 2025 Krishnapillai Padmavathyamma Sairaj, Selvamony Sukumaran https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Antioxidant activity and vasorelaxant effect of Marrubium multibracteatum via receptor-activated calcium channels and nitric oxide pathways in rats
According to several studies, antihypertensive drugs have side effects on human health. Therefore, natural products are also being investigated as alternatives to these drugs. For this reason, the present study aimed to examine the vasorelaxant properties of Marrubium multibracteatum aqueous extract (MMAE) on isolated rat aortic rings. The antioxidant potential of MMAE was also evaluated. The vasorelaxant activity of MMAE was assessed on aortic rings precontracted with epinephrine (EP, 10 μM) and potassium chloride (KCl, 80 mM). The antioxidant potential of MMAE was determined using the DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging assay. In addition, the extract underwent phytochemical screening. The results showed that cumulative concentrations of MMAE (0.75 – 1.50 mg/mL) induced a vasorelaxant effect on epinephrine-precontracted aortic rings via the nitric oxide (NO) pathway and inhibited extracellular Ca2+ entry through receptor-operated calcium channels (ROCCs). However, the same concentrations of MMAE exhibited only minimal vasorelaxant effects on KCl (80 mM)-precontracted aortic rings. In contrast, MMAE demonstrated significant antioxidant activity. These findings suggest that MMAE exhibits both potent vasorelaxant and antioxidant properties, likely due to its phytochemical composition, particularly the presence of polyphenols, flavonoids and tannins. Therefore, this extract may represent a promising natural alternative to certain synthetic antihypertensive drugs.
Copyright (c) 2025 Said Elaydy, Omar Farid, Ismail Bouadid, Ayoub Amssayef, Adil Qabouche, Amine Azzane, Morad Hebi, Mohammed Ajebli, EL-Hadani, Nadia Lahrach, Farid Khallouki, Mohamed Eddouks https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Comparative analysis of metabolites and bioactivities of Alpinia nelumboides leaves, pseudostems and rhizomes
Alpinia nelumboides Nob. Tanaka, T. T. K. Van & V. Hoang is a member of the family Zingiberaceae. Alpinia spp. are often used in traditional medicine. Limited data regarding phytochemicals and biological activities of this species are found in the available literature. This study aimed to identify pigments and phenolics in its leaves, pseudo-stems and rhizomes using high-performance liquid chromatography and spectrophotometry. Besides, free radical scavenging properties of acetonic extracts from the plant were assessed. The levels of chlorophyll a and b in the A. nelumboides leaves were approximately 3 time higher in the rhizomes. Among the phenolics examined, epicatechin was the most abundant compound, with an average concentrations ranging from 12.26—61.23 mg/g extract. The leaf extract exerted the strongest activity to scavenge ABTS (2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)) radicals (IC50 = 339.46 ± 10.18 µg/mL) while the rhizome extract showed the most potent capacity to neutralize DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) radicals (IC50 = 149.56 ± 2.37 µg/mL). These results provide a better understanding of the phenolic components of A. nelumboides and its potential health-promoting activities.
Copyright (c) 2026 Nguyen Thi Ngan, Nguyen Thi Trang https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Eco-friendly edible coatings: Revolutionizing shelf-life extension for guava ‘Allahabad Safeda’
Guava, a nutrient-rich but highly perishable fruit, has a limited shelf life, necessitating innovative solutions for preservation. This study investigated the efficacy of edible coatings in extending guava's storage life. Chitosan (0.5 %, 1 %, 1.5 %, 2 %), k-carrageenan (0.2 %, 0.4 %, 0.6 %, 0.8 %) and composite coatings of chitosan and k-carrageenan (0.5 %+0.2 %, 1 %+0.2 %, 1.5 %+0.2 %) were evaluated for their effects on guava stored at ambient temperatures over 15 days, following a completely randomized. Among the treatments, 1 % chitosan emerged as the most effective, minimizing reductions in physical attributes such as fruit length, width, firmness and pulp ratio, while significantly reducing physiological weight loss. Chitosan also excelled in preserving biochemical qualities. At various concentrations, it maintained the highest levels of total soluble solids (TSS), TSS-to-acid ratio, titratable acidity, pH and ascorbic acid content. Notably, the 0.5 % chitosan treatment optimized sugar profiles, showing the highest total sugar, reducing sugar and non-reducing sugar content. The findings highlight chitosan as a superior coating material for extending guava's shelf life while preserving its physical integrity and biochemical quality. Particularly, the 1 % chitosan treatment strikes an ideal balance, making it a promising, cost-effective solution for enhancing the marketability and post-harvest management of guava.
Copyright (c) 2025 Karthi J S, Sakshi Blagan, Vishal Johar, Amit Kotiyal, Vinita Bisht, Shalu Vyas, Rahul Kumar, Sapna Thakur https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Detection of ALS gene mutations conferring pyroxsulam resistance in wild mustard (Sinapis arvensis L.) from Kurdistan, Iraq
Wild mustard is a diploid (2n = 18) annual winter weed that can reduce crop yields by between 48 % and 71 %. This weed is nowadays resistant to acetolactate synthase and even to new herbicides. In an experiment with wild mustard with suspected resistance to Pyroxsulam herbicide, seeds were collected and planted in a pot in a growth chamber. Five concentrations of Pyroxsulam herbicide were applied when the wild mustard had developed 2 to 3 leaves. After 2 weeks of herbicide application, 2 leaves sterilised with 70 % ethanol were sampled. Sequence analysis of the ALS gene detected twenty target site mutations in ORF1 and ORF3 with amino acid substitutions. ALS gene mutations were detected at multiple codons, with the highest mutation frequency at 1.08 % Pyroxsulam concentration. Significant differences between concentrations used in the study and single-nucleotide polymorphisms were found in ORF1, ORF3 and combinations of the two fragments. The herbicide concentrations were indicated to play a significant role in nucleotide substitutions in wild mustard. This herbicide dose-response experiment confirmed that wild mustard resisted the Pyroxsulam herbicide. This is the first report of such mutations in wild mustard from Kurdistan, Iraq.
Copyright (c) 2025 Neyaz R Mustafa, Ismail A Said, Muhsin A Ahmed https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Pollen-based screening of coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) varieties for tolerance to high temperature and drought stress
Cocos nucifera L. is a vital crop in South Asia, particularly in coastal areas vulnerable to climate change, with heat and drought stress significantly impacting its production. The reproductive stage of coconut is more sensitive to these stresses. Recent studies have employed in vitro pollen screening to assess heat tolerance. Osmotic adjustment (OA) has been recognized as a key factor in drought tolerance by maintaining turgor pressure. This study examined the effects of temperature on pollen germination (PG) and tube growth across eight coconut hybrids, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 50 ºC. The hybrids showed significant differences in cardinal temperatures (Tmin, Topt, Tmax) for PG and tube growth. This work also assessed osmotic stress responses using polyethylene glycol (PEG) solutions in the presence or absence of an osmolyte potassium chloride (KCl), revealing differences in intrinsic OA and osmolyte-induced OA. The Chowghat Orange Dwarf (COD) x Andaman Ordinary Tall (ADOT) hybrid was found to be the most heat tolerant. These findings provide valuable insights into coconut hybrid tolerance to climate change, highlighting the potential for combining intrinsic and osmolyte-induced OA to enhance drought resistance.
Copyright (c) 2026 R Sudha, M Neema, V Niral, K Samsudeen, A Veluru, K P Chandran, V Sivakumar, M R Ananthan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Screening and selection of a lead phytochemical inhibitor against Nsp3 protein, from Lawsonia inermis L. through in silico approaches
Lawsonia inermis L., a plant of immense significance as the natural source of dye “Mehendi” is rich in secondary metabolites that impart important medicinal properties. These phytochemicals offer plant-based alternatives to synthetic drugs, which are often associated with harmful side effects, reinforcing the need to explore such natural compounds. The main objective of this study is to find plant-based lead from among the phytochemicals present in Lawsonia inermis L., against Nsp3 protein. Methanolic extracts from the plant was used and a group of phytochemicals were verified and identified by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry, which were then subjected to phytochemical screening. The shortlisted best ligands (caffeic acid and lawsone) were subjected to molecular dynamic simulations for 100 ns, where RMSD, Rg and RMSF were analysed along with the binding affinities to the protein. Lawsone and caffeic acid emerged as good candidates. Molecular dynamic simulations indicated that lawsone, a naphthoquinone, formed stable complexes with Nsp3, exhibiting favourable RMSD, RMSF and Rg values, as well as a strong binding affinity of -20.72 kcal/mol. Our analysis shows the prospective possibility of lawsone, as a potential antiviral compound. This also highlights the interactions of a naphthoquinone, against Nsp3 protein, increasing the medicinal importance of the plant. Previous studies usually reveal phenols and flavonoids to be effective antiviral agents. This study, for the very first time, reveals the potential of lawsone (naphthoquinone and the main pigment of the plant), against Nsp3 protein.
Copyright (c) 2025 Debapriya Das, Sujata Dhar Dutta, Bidisha Mallick, Dipu Samanta, Debleena Roy https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Genetic diversity and trait correlation analysis among guava (Psidium guajava L.) parents and their F1s differing in pulp color
Guava (Psidium guajava L.) is popularly known as ‘Super Fruit’ and ‘Apple of the Tropics’ due to its nutritive richness. The pulp color of the guava fruit is associated with its pigment composition. In the present study, twenty-two guava hybrids and their 5 parental genotypes were evaluated for various fruit quality-related traits. The fruit weight (FW), fruit length (FL), fruit width (WF), pulp thickness (PT), seed core diameter (SCD) and FL/width ratio in guava hybrids varied from 78.93-207.10 g, 49.66-83.95 mm, 50.07-73.08 mm, 9.58-18.97 mm, 17.46-44.95 mm and 0.83-1.30, respectively. Total soluble solids (TSS), ascorbic acid (ASC) content, lycopene (LYC) content, total anthocyanins (TAN) and total carotenoids (TCR) in the hybrid fruits ranged from 10.17-18.80 oB, 143.79-275.99 mg/100 g, 0.17-9.51 mg 100 g-1, 0.01-4.61 mg 100 g-1and 0.16-2.49 mg 100 g-1, respectively. In general, white-pulped genotypes had higher ASC content than the pink/red pulped ones. Pulp-color-related traits, viz., LYC content, TCR and TAN, showed high heritability (H) and mean genetic advance (GA). Correlation analysis revealed that LYC content was positively correlated with TCR. The observed phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) for all traits exceeded the respective genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV), indicating genetic diversity among the studied guava genotypes. Cluster analysis differentiated guava genotypes into distinct clusters based on pulp color as well as other fruit-related traits. The hybrids, red/pink pulp: ‘HSU/SH-16-8-2’, ‘HSU/SH-16-8-3’, ‘PPT/HSU-16-9-16’ and white pulp: ‘HSU/SH-16-8-18’, ‘SH/BG-14-1-2’, excelled for fruit-related traits, having potential to be utilized in future breeding programs.
Copyright (c) 2026 Akshay, Madhubala Thakre, Rutuparna Senapati, Arumugam Nagaraja, Mahendra Kumar Verma, S Gopala Krishnan, Eldho Varghese, Amitha Mithra Sevanthi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) for resistance to Meloidogyne graminicola in an association panel of Oryza rufipogon
The rice root-knot nematode (RRKN), Meloidogyne graminicola, is an obligate pathogen responsible for considerable yield losses in both upland and rainfed lowland rice cultivation in India. Identifying and mapping quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with resistance to M. graminicola could provide a sustainable and cost-effective management strategy for farmers. Genetic resources for resistance to M. graminicola are limited in Asian rice (Oryza sativa) cultivars. Therefore, a study was conducted to identify potential sources of resistance in wild rice. In this study, 93 accessions of Oryza rufipogon were screened for resistance to RRKN, alongside the susceptible check PR126, under artificial inoculation conditions over 2 years at the Department of Plant Pathology, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab, India. The evaluation of RRKN resistance was based on the root galling index (RGI), soil nematode population and reproduction factor (Rf). A genome-wide association study (GWAS) for RRKN traits identified significant associations for RGI on chromosomes 1, 2, 5, 6 and 11. For soil nematode population, significant associations were found on chromosomes 2, 4, 5, 6 and 7. Notably, QTLs on chromosomes 2 and 6 were consistently detected across traits and models, providing robust candidate regions for resistance. Among these, SNP S6_23144943 on chromosome 6 showed consistent association across all models and may represent a stable genetic source of resistance. These loci highlight the polygenic nature of resistance to M. graminicola in wild rice and represent valuable resources for marker-assisted breeding.
Copyright (c) 2026 Anupam Sekhon, Narpinderjeet Kaur Dhillon, Dharminder Bhatia, Harwinder Singh Buttar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
High efficiency of agroinfiltration approach in Phalaenopsis amabilis (L.) Blume (moth orchid) with transient expression of green fluorescent protein reporter gene
Agroinfiltration has become a crucial technique in molecular biology, enabling the transfer of functional genes into target plants for rapid gene expression analysis. This study investigated the use of agroinfiltration for transient expression of the green fluorescent protein (GFP) reporter gene in Phalaenopsis amabilis (L.) Blume transformant leaves. The aim was to establish an efficient and rapid genetic transformation method for generating transformant plant candidates. Agroinfiltration was performed on the leaves using a suspension containing Agrobacterium tumefaciens strain GV3101, which harbored a T-DNA construct in the pRI101AN vector carrying the 35S::GFP and neomycin phosphotransferase II (NPTII) genes. Plant development post-infiltration was monitored microscopically with a fluorescence microscope and confirmed molecularly using PCR (polymerase chain reaction) with specific primers for GFP (736 bp), NPTII (550 bp) and ACTIN (114 bp). The results showed that green fluorescence, indicating GFP expression, was detected under a blue laser (450 - 480 nm) within 24 hr post-infiltration on both the adaxial and abaxial leaf surfaces, particularly along the midvein (primary veins) and leaf margins. Anatomical analysis of transverse and longitudinal free-hand sections further confirmed the rapid occurrence within the epidermis, mesophyll and vascular tissues. The accuracy of the data was supported and confirmed by the positive results of all three P. amabilis transformant plants that were analyzed by PCR and it was proven that all positive transformant plants carried the GFP, NPTII and ACTIN genes as positive controls. These results indicate agroinfiltration and GFP approach offering efficient, rapid and valuable prospects for accelerating genetic engineering applications in plant research.
Copyright (c) 2025 P D Kasi, E Gildantia, Y R Hanifa, Purnomo, Maryani, E Semiarti https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The role of Moringa oleifera in soil microbial dynamics and environmental sustainability
Soil microbial communities and enzymatic activities play a crucial role in maintaining soil fertility, nutrient cycling and overall ecosystem health. This study investigates the microbial and enzymatic properties of soils across four distinct blocks: Dharampur, Kunihar, Solan and Nalagarh. Key parameters assessed include microbial biomass carbon, bacterial, fungal and Actinomycetes populations, along with urease and dehydrogenase enzymatic activities, which serve as indicators of soil biological health. The results reveal substantial spatial variability in microbial and biochemical attributes, with Kunihar soils exhibiting the highest microbial biomass, microbial populations and enzymatic activities, suggesting favorable biological conditions. Conversely, Nalagarh soils consistently recorded the lowest values, indicative of diminished microbial activity and suboptimal soil conditions. These findings underscore the significant impact of environmental and management factors on shaping soil microbial dynamics, highlighting the importance of adopting site-specific strategies for soil enhancement. Future research should focus on identifying key drivers of microbial health and support the development of sustainable land management interventions, particularly for ecologically vulnerable or degraded regions.
Copyright (c) 2025 Sahil Thakur, Anjali Chauhan, Rajesh Kaushal, Ruchi Thakur, Rahul Pathania https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Phytochemical and cosmeceutical assessment of Carissa carandas L. extracts for skin lipoprotein protection
Oxidative damage to skin lipoproteins is a critical factor in ageing and dermatological disorders, yet natural interventions targeting this pathway remain insufficiently studied so plant-based cosmeceuticals of Carissa carandas L. extracts to protect skin lipoproteins from oxidative stress and ageing-related damage. Fully ripened fruits and leaves, dried in powder form, were subjected to ultrasound-assisted extraction with 50 % ethanol. Antioxidant and antimicrobial potential were determined. The yield of fruits and leaves extracts was obtained up to 43.30 and 25.00 %, respectively. Bioactives profiling was done by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), quantify the presence of phenolic and flavonoids. Moreover, fruits extract displayed significant potential for total phenolic content, total flavonoid content (TFC) and total carotenoid content (TCC) compared to the leaves extract. Fruits formulation exhibited the highest 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) inhibition (84.9 %) compared to the leaves formulation (76.5 %). In the ABTS (2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)) assay, fruit extract (76.90 %) and formulation (86.28 %) showed higher scavenging activity than leaves extract (60.38 %) and formulation (68.60 %). Fruits extract exhibited a larger antibacterial and antifungal zone of inhibition using Staphylococcus aureus & Escherichia coli, Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus flavus than the formulation. Antiaging activities were optimized by inhibition of antiaging enzymes, i.e. tyrosinase, collagenase and elastase. Fruits and leaves formulation inhibited all three enzymes, exhibiting the best anti-ageing effect. The findings suggested that C. carandas fruits and leaves extracts phenolic components may be used as an anti-ageing ingredient in cosmetics.
Copyright (c) 2025 Fozia Anjum, Shazia Anwer Bukhari, Tehmeena Nasir, Atiqa Sardar, Farrukh Tahir, Rehana Ramzan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Genetic analysis of Indian x East European F2:3 cross for yield traits and erucic acid in Brassica juncea (L.) Czern. & Coss.
The quality of oil in Brassica juncea is significantly influenced by its erucic acid content, highlighting the need for developing low-erucic acid genotypes through Marker-Assisted Selection (MAS). This study aimed to characterize 175 segregating F₃ genotypes derived from Indian genetic backgrounds from cross between Indian (Pusa Mehak) and East European (Primus) parents using Cleaved Amplified Polymorphic Sequence (CAPS) markers followed by restriction digestion for Fatty Acid Synthesase (FAE) gene’s two paralogs- FAE1.1 and FAE1.2 genes, which govern erucic acid biosynthesis. The genotypic classification based on amplification and restriction digestion revealed six distinct allelic configurations, with FAE1.1 exhibiting a stronger correlation with erucic acid content than FAE1.2. To validate these genetic findings, the biochemical profiling of oil samples by gas chromatography confirmed a bimodal distribution of erucic acid (17.45–50.92 %), with homozygous recessive e₁e₁ genotypes displaying significantly lower erucic acid (22.26 % and 24.44 %) compared to heterozygous and dominant homozygous genotypes (27.29–45.20 %). However, FAE1.2 did not show a clear association with erucic acid content, indicating its limited contribution to the trait. Gene FAE1.2’s limited role in determining erucic acid levels compared to FAE1.1, could shift selection priorities towards focusing on FAE1.1, making it the primary target for MAS in breeding programs. The study validated MAS as an efficient strategy for early-stage selection of low-erucic acid genotypes, potentially reducing breeding cycles and accelerating the development of superior Indian mustard varieties. The identified seven low-erucic acid genotypes hold promise for breeding programs aimed at improving oil quality. The integration of MAS with morphological and physiological selection criteria could further enhance breeding efficiency and facilitate development of high-yielding, nutritionally improved B. juncea varieties.
Copyright (c) 2025 Tushadri Singh, S K Gupta, Ravinder Singh, Rubby Sandhu, Nashra Aftab, Akriti Sharma, Preety Rani https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Plant-derived coagulants as sustainable alternative for aquaculture wastewater cleanup
The rapid increase in population and the ongoing depletion of freshwater resources have raised global concerns about water scarcity. In response to this critical issue, there is an urgent need to reuse wastewater by removing contaminants. Chemical coagulants have been excessively used due to their high efficiency, but they come with disadvantages. In this study, a novel approach was explored by utilizing the whole plant (leaves, stem and roots) of two underexplored medicinal plants, Catharanthus roseus and Ocimum tenuiflorum, to evaluate their efficiency in treating aquaculture wastewater. Coagulation experiments were conducted using jar test apparatus. Adsorption of the pollutants on the coagulants through sweep flocculation, pore entrapment and charge neutralization mechanisms were observed through Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) studies. Attenuated Total Reflectance - Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR-FTIR) analysis revealed the key functional groups -OH, C=C and C=N on the coagulants that contributed to flocculation of pollutants. The overall experimental study revealed that all coagulant types were efficient in treating aquaculture wastewater at an optimal dose range of 0.3-0.4 g/L. Catharanthus roseus roots were better at removing turbidity (99 %) followed by total suspended solids (98.3 %) and total dissolved solids (96.3 %). Chlorides, sulphates, phosphates and nitrates were efficiently removed with a blend of C. roseus and O. tenuiflorum. Electrical conductivity was reduced effectively by up to 99 % with O. tenuiflorum seeds. These overall findings indicate an eco-friendly, sustainable solution for aquaculture wastewater treatment.
Copyright (c) 2026 Chandana Chintu, Harshitha Marla, Saritha Vara, Patnala Kiranmayi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Modulation of physicochemical properties and antioxidant capacity of papaya fruits by edible coatings under ambient storage
In recent years, fresh papaya has gained a lot of popularity due to its status as a superfood and its application in functional foods and beverages. Despite its significant production, the per-capita availability of this fruit is low because of its extreme perishability. Therefore, an attempt was made to prolong the postharvest life of papaya fruits by using edible coatings, specifically carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), chitosan, gum arabica and sodium alginate. Of the many edible coatings used in this study, CMC 1 % permitted papaya fruits to be kept at ambient conditions for 14 days. The application of CMC coating slowed down the process of ripening and significantly preserved fruit quality by lowering the rates of respiration, ethylene evolution and physiological weight loss. At the end of the storage period, CMC-coated papaya fruits had superior marketable fruit quality parameters, including total sugars (9.80 %), titratable acidity (0.23 %), ascorbic acid content (52.76 mg/100 g) and antioxidant activity (13.95 mg AEAC/100 g) with the highly favourable sensory properties up to 14 days. Our findings enable us to extend the postharvest shelf life of papaya fruits, allowing them to reach consumers with good sensory qualities and at reasonable prices.
Copyright (c) 2026 M Pavankumar, D V Sudhakar Rao, S V R Reddy; K S Shivashankara; C Vasugi, Preethi P, S Sriram https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Microscopic and powder characteristics of Homalomena cochinchinensis (Lour.) Schott for pharmacognostic identification and quality control
This study examines the microscopic and powder characteristics of Homalomena cochinchinensis, a valued medicinal plant in Vietnam, which is widely used to treat arthritis, muscle pain, skin wounds and digestive issues. The aim was to pinpoint unique features for accurate species identification and quality control. Samples from Tay Ninh, Vietnam, were studied by slicing roots, rhizomes, leaves, petioles and leaf sheaths for microscopic analysis and processing rhizome powder. The findings revealed distinct markers, including thick tissue layers, ring-shaped vascular bundles and needle-shaped or rhombohedral calcium oxalate crystals. The rhizome powder, sifted through a 0.150 mm sieve, produced particles smaller than 9 µm, ideal for efficiently extracting medicinal compounds. These characteristics enable reliable identification of H. cochinchinensis, distinguish it from similar species, establish quality benchmarks for herbal products. The fine powder supports consistent extraction of active compounds, aiding the development of effective medicinal formulations. These findings provide a foundation for further pharmacological research to ensure safe and effective use traditional and modern medicinal.
Copyright (c) 2026 Thien Hoang Ho, Ngoc Thuan Nguyen, Thi Thu Trang Le, VanThiep Vo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Morphological evaluation and yield performance of fifty chilli (Capsicum frutescens L.) genotypes in Bangladesh
Higher yield and superior fruit quality are key targets for genetic improvement and commercial cultivation of chilli. To identify promising lines, 50 chilli (Capsicum frutescens L.) genotypes were evaluated for their morphological and yield performance. The study was conducted at the Horticulture Farm and Department of Horticulture at Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU), Mymensingh, from October 2021 to September 2022. A randomized complete block design (RCBD) with 3 replications was employed for the field layout. The genotypes, sourced from various regions of Bangladesh and abroad, exhibited significant variability in growth and yield traits. Genotypes G10, G24 and G49 exhibited the highest total yield, while G34, G28 and G15 showed superior fruit traits in terms of weight, length and width. Genotype G48, with the longest peduncles, offered greater harvest efficiency. Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed that 5 components explained 96.73 % of the total variation, primarily influenced by plant height, fruit diameter and fruit number. Non-hierarchical cluster analysis grouped the genotypes into 4 distinct clusters, confirming significant genetic divergence. These findings suggest that G10, G24 and G49 are ideal for high-yield cultivation, whereas G34, G28 and G15 are promising for fruit improvement and G48 for enhancing harvest efficiency in future breeding programs.
Copyright (c) 2026 Amit Kumar Basunia, Md. Mokter Hossain, Md. Harun Ar Rashid, M Harun-or Rashid, Nayan Chandra Howlader https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Calibration of genetic coefficients for blackgram using DSSAT-CROPGRO model
Blackgram is an important pulse crop in India, but abiotic stresses and poor management often limit its productivity. This study, for the first time, optimized genetic coefficients for 12 blackgram genotypes, providing a valuable resource for accurate simulation and crop modelling applications. Crop simulation models such as Decision Support System for Agrotechnology Transfer (DSSAT-CROPGRO) are valuable tools for evaluating varietal responses under diverse environmental conditions. However, accurate simulation requires genotype-specific genetic coefficients, which are largely unavailable for blackgram, limiting the effective application of such models. To address this gap, we calibrated and validated the CROPGRO-Drybean model under rainfed conditions during the Kharif season (2022-23) at the Main Agricultural Research Station (MARS), University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS), Dharwad. Genetic coefficients were optimized for 12 blackgram genotypes (DBG-5, DBG-19, DBG-31, DBG-33, DBG-34, DBG-93, DBG-16, DBG-96, DBG-90, DBG-95, DBG-61 and DU-1) using 3 replicated datasets from two sowing dates (May 30 and June 27) for calibration and the remaining two other sowing dates (June 13 and July 18) for validation. Results showed that simulated values closely matched with observed data, with deviations within ± 10 %. Phenological deviations ranged from 0 % to + 2.4 % for anthesis and - 1.3 % to + 1.3 % for maturity, while grain yield deviations ranged from - 3.1 % to + 5.8 %. Model performance was further supported by low root mean squared error (RMSE) values (0 - 1.41 days for phenology, 16.97 - 127.28 kg ha-1 for yield) and consistently high index of agreement (d = 0.889 – 1.0).
Copyright (c) 2025 Pravallika Abburu, Raveendra H Patil, Suma C Mogali, Ganajaxi Math https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Antibacterial and antioxidant activity of liquid hand soap with natural colourants derived from butterfly pea (Clitoria ternatea), beetroot (Beta vulgaris) and sappanwood (Caesalpinia sappan) extracts
Handwashing with soap and water is an essential preventive measure to reduce the spread of infections. Extracts from butterfly pea (Clitoria ternatea L.), beetroot (Beta vulgaris L.) and sappanwood (Caesalpinia sappan L.) contain flavonoids, saponins, tannins, steroids and terpenoids that act as antibacterial and antioxidant agents, while also serving as safe natural colourants. This study evaluated their antibacterial and antioxidant activities, both in raw extracts and in liquid hand soap formulations containing 1 % w/v extracts with visually appealing colours. Dried plant materials were extracted through ethanol maceration and formulated into liquid hand soap at 1 % w/v. The parameters evaluated included phytochemical constituents (triterpenoids, alkaloids, tannins and flavonoids), antioxidant activity determined by inhibition percentage and half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50), antibacterial activity against Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis) and Gram-negative (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli) bacteria using the inhibition zone assay. Sappanwood extract showed the highest alkaloid (30.21 mg AE/g) and flavonoid (29.17 mg QE/g) levels, while butterfly pea had the highest triterpenoid (7.62 mg LE/g) and tannin (39.38 mg TAE/g) contents. Sappanwood exhibited the strongest antioxidant activity (88.74 % inhibition, IC50= 0.01 ppm) and potent antibacterial effects, particularly against S. epidermidis (812 mm²). Liquid hand soap with 1 % w/v beetroot extract showed significant antibacterial activity, with inhibition zones of 438 mm² (S. aureus), 425 mm² (P. aeruginosa), 281 mm² (S. epidermidis) and 376 mm² (E. coli). These findings highlight the potential of 1 % w/v plant-derived extracts as multifunctional additives in hygiene products, combining antimicrobial, antioxidant and coloring properties, with promising applications for eco-friendly personal care formulations.
Copyright (c) 2025 Exsyupransia Mursyanti, Ines Septi Arsiningtyas, Dyah Carinae Yalapuspita , Fabiana Disa Widianingtyas https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Antibacterial activity and stability of mouthwash formulated with ethanolic extract of sappan wood (Caesalpinia sappan L.) against Streptococcus mutans ATCC 25173 and Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 10145
This study aimed to develop and evaluate a herbal mouthwash formulation containing an ethanolic extract of sappan wood (Caesalpinia sappan L.) as a potential natural alternative to chlorhexidine-based products. The extract and derived mouthwash were assessed for antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans Clarke and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Schroeter) Migula using the agar well diffusion and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) methods at concentrations of 1 %, 3 % and 5 %. Positive controls included 0.2 % chlorhexidine and a commercial mouthwash, while negative controls consisted of mouthwash without extract and 96 % ethanol. The stability of the mouthwash was evaluated through a six-cycle cycling test by monitoring organoleptic properties, homogeneity, pH, sedimentation and redispersion. The mouthwash exhibited a maximum inhibition zone of 21.5 mm and 15.2 mm against S. mutans and P. aeruginosa, respectively, with MIC values of 1 % and 3 %. It remained physically stable during six storage cycles with consistent pH (4.6–6.5) and homogeneous dispersion. These results demonstrate that sappan wood extract possesses strong antibacterial activity and good formulation stability, supporting its potential as a safe and effective herbal mouthwash. The study highlights the novelty of exploring a plant-based mouthwash as a promising natural alternative to chlorhexidine, showing comparable in vitro antibacterial activity with potentially fewer adverse effects.
Copyright (c) 2026 Michele Liony Maria Onibala, Stefani Santi Widhiastuti , Exsyupransia Mursyanti https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Nutritional, textural and sensory quality of cookies supplemented with Moringa oleifera Lam. and Spinacia oleracea L.
Deficiency of iron is a rampant nutritional dispute globally, particularly in developing and underdeveloped countries. Our investigation emphasizes evolving iron-rich cookies by adding Spinacia oleracea L. and Moringa oleifera Lam. leaf powders. They are abundant in vitamins, iron, magnesium and proteins, which are the nutrients essential to our body. These ingredients are dual delivered to cookies to improve nutritional content to address anaemia. The cookies prepared underwent physicochemical analyses. Here, colour, diameter, thickness, moisture and content were analysed. S. oleracea and M. oleifera leaf powder fortified cookies increased the nutrition in cookies when compared to conventional cookies. Sensory evaluation studies revealed the overall acceptability, appearance, flavour, taste and texture using a 9-point hedonic scale. The untutored members' panel revealed a favourable retort to the savoury and sweet selection of cookies. Using DPPH free radical scavenging activity antioxidant activity was investigated. 95.99 % of solid antioxidant potential was observed at a concentration of 10 μg/mL. These fortified cookies provide us with benefits to health, good sensory quality, which in turn makes them a quality food product with probable market value.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mohammad Imdad Ulla, T H Anantha Krishna, Mahesh Anikisetty, Ullas Prasanna S https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Influence of botanical extracts and powders on radial growth, spawn growth and production of sporophores of oyster mushroom (Pleurotus spp.)
The aim of evaluating the mycelial development and production of Pleurotus spp. to various botanical extracts in the laboratory. The effects of the botanicals evaluated on Petri plates on Pleurotus sapidus and Pleurotus flabellatus fruiting body formation and spawn growth. All plant extracts were found to be supportive of mushroom mycelial growth. P. sapidus showed the highest yield, 861.25 g/kg dry substrate at 86.12 % biological efficiency (BE) with minimum days for spawn run were observed (14.25 days), minimum days for first harvesting (21.25 days) and maximum numbers of fruiting bodies (65.75) were observed in wheat straw + Lantana camara foliage powder at 4.0 %. In case of P. flabellatus, the highest yield of 878.25 g/kg dry matter at 87.82 % BE with the minimum number of days for spawn run was recorded in 13.50 days. The minimum days for first harvesting were 20.50 days and the highest number of fruiting bodies (65.50) was noticed in the medium of wheat straw + L. camara leaf powder at 4.0 %. Eucalyptus was found to be comparatively less effective for Pleurotus spp. The L. camara foliage extract and powder were the highest growth promoters of mycelium and increasing BE and can be adopted to enhance the production of oyster mushroom cultivation. The botanicals used in the study are easily available for the growers and directly impact to their economy.
Copyright (c) 2025 Sandeep Kumar, Gopal Singh, Neha Saini, Ganesh Datt Bhatt, Khilendra Singh, Archana Negi, Vivek Kumar Pathak https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Optimizing pollen viability and in vitro pollen germination potential in foxtail millet genotypes
Foxtail millet is a C4 model crop with very small florets. To improve the yield of any crop, pollen germination and development are important to know, which is still not well-known in foxtail millet. The present investigation was conducted in the Department of Seed Science and Technology, Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University (HNBGU), Srinagar, Garhwal, Uttarakhand, during the Kharif seasons of 2023 and 2024 to study flowering phenology and achieve synchronous flowering for the development of a hybrid seed production programme. The study involved 14 genotypes, including 12 landraces and 2 varieties as checks. The timing of pollination in foxtail millet germplasm was observed to be approximately 1-2 hrs. Further to understand the pollen viability, in vitro pollen germination and development of pollen tube under the influence of different media and time durations at a temperature of 25 °C with 85 % relative humidity. Significant variation in pollen viability and pollen germination was recorded across the different media tested. The maximum pollen viability, lasting up to 5 hr, was observed in the genotype FMC-1, indicating its potential for crop improvement. A combination of sucrose, boric acid and potassium nitrate (KNO3) was found to be the best media compared to others, such as 2,3,5-triphenyl tetrazolium chloride (TTC), acetocarmine, boric acid + sucrose, as pollen grains began germinating within 30 min in most genotypes. This study provides valuable insights for designing a crossbreeding programme in foxtail millet.
Copyright (c) 2025 Abha Rawat, J S Chauhan, Deepti Prabha , Shubham Thapa https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Influence of light emitting diodes as alternative lighting for cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata) microgreens grown under ambient conditions
Artificial lighting is essential in indoor farming, wherein light quality is considered in crop production. In this study, light-emitting diodes (LEDs) using different colours (red (R), blue (B), RB and white (as control) were used to determine the impact on the growth of cabbage microgreens under ambient conditions. A completely randomised design with 4 replications was used. Microgreens were exposed to LEDs for 10 hr and 14 hr in darkness. The microgreens were harvested 10 days after emergence by cutting them from the surface of vermicast (as the substrate) using a sterilised pair of scissors. Results showed that white LED had shorter microgreens and hypocotyls than the other LEDs. Whereas the leaves were longer by exposing the microgreens to blue and RB LEDs than the white LED, the former LEDs showed a similarity with the red LED. A high root count was observed in microgreens with blue and RB LEDs, which was higher than red LEDs. But the white LED showed a similar root count to the other LEDs. Moreover, white LED produced a higher chlorophyll content based on its high SPAD index. Red and RB LEDs produced a higher fresh weight of microgreens than white LEDs. Fresh weight per microgreen had a positive relationship with the fresh weight yield of microgreens. Likewise, microgreen height, hypocotyl length and leaf length displayed a positive and significant association with a high yield of cabbage microgreens. Either red or RB LED is recommended to obtain a higher yield of microgreens for ambient indoor growing conditions.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mayvee Gudayen, Raymund Julius G Rosales, Micah Benize S Gregorio-Balbas, Aira Lilac I Pungtilan, Christian Butch Andrew A Balbas https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Standardization of sterilization protocol and culture medium for growth regulator-free direct organogenesis in Cordyline terminalis (L.) Kunth
The study was conducted at the Biotechnology-cum-Tissue Culture Centre, Baramunda, AICRP of Floriculture and Landscaping, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, India to standardize surface sterilization protocols and assess direct organogenesis in 3 explants-nodal segments, shoot tips and leaf bits under free plant growth regulators (PGR) conditions in Cordyline terminalis (L.) Kunth. Six sterilization treatments involving ethanol, sodium hypochlorite and mercuric chloride (HgCl₂) at varying concentrations and durations were evaluated. Among all, 0.1 % HgCl₂ for 10 min (T₈) was most effective, resulting in the highest survival (75.03 ± 0.17 %), minimal fungal (10.52 ± 0.16 %) and bacterial (0 %) contamination and maximum aseptic cultures (79.48 ± 0.14 %). Nodal segments consistently outperformed other explants in survival and regeneration. Subsequent culturing of nodal segments on MS basal medium devoid of PGRs resulted in direct shoot and root formation in all treatments (T₁–T₈), with T₈ showing maximum cultures with direct organogenesis (6.67), shoots (6.00/explant), leaves (9.00/shoot), root length (7.67 cm) and number of roots (5.33). Additionally, seasonal influence was significant for explants collected during the winter season (November-December) with higher survival and lower contamination compared to those from other months. The findings establish an efficient, hormone-free regeneration protocol for C. terminalis, emphasizing the importance of optimized sterilization and seasonal timing. This approach offers a simplified and cost-effective alternative for commercial micropropagation of C. terminalis.
Copyright (c) 2026 Sweta Subhashree Jena, Lilymoony Tripathy, Pratyush Jena, Mahima Sharma, Anjali Suansia, Bandapalli Bhavani, S Suganya, Rakhi Nandy, Satendra Kumar Singh, Aneesh Kunnapillil Surendran https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Apoptosis induction by Cassia angustifolia leaf extract in breast cancer cell line and intracellular expression of inflammatory cytokine
Cassia angustifolia is a famous and important medicinal plant around the world. It is used for the treatment of a lot of diseases to reduce inflammation in the skin and other parts of the body. Breast cancer has been distributed at a high rate in recent years among women and be most threatening to life. In this study the activity of Cassia angustifolia leaf extract was investigated as anticancer for breast cancer and immune response enhancement. WRL68, MCF7 and MDA-MB-231 cell line were treated with different doses of C. angustifolia leaf extract. Macrophage RAW 246.7 cell line was treated with C. angustifolia ethanol leaf extract for enhanced IL8, INF gamma and IL6 intracellular expression. Results showed that C. angustifolia ethanol leaf extract showed no toxic effect and did not affect the viability of WRL-68 liver cell line, while inhibiting the viability of breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-231 and MCF7 cell line a dose-dependent manner as presented. Also, influence on the intracellular expression of inflammatory cytokines as IL8, INF- gamma and IL6 were revealed enhanced significant the expression these cytokines within treated RAW cells with C. angustifolia leaf extract. To conclude, C. angustifolia ethanol leaf extract has anti-proliferation agent and enhancement of immune response by enhancing the intracellular expression of IL8, IFN-gamma and IL6 cytokines in the treated macrophage RAW cell line.
Copyright (c) 2025 Nashwan Ibrahem Al-Lehebe, Ehssan Nissiaf Jasim Al-Obaidy, Hamza N Hameed https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Life cycle and host-dependent rearing efficiency of Thrips tabaci on onion and runner bean
Onions are the second most widely produced vegetable globally, after tomatoes and are vulnerable to both biotic and abiotic stresses. Among the key pests, Thrips tabaci is a polyphagous species that poses a major threat to onion production, causing direct damage and acting as a vector for tospoviruses. This study used ITS2-based PCR and Sanger sequencing to molecularly confirm the identity of field-collected T. tabaci, showing 100 % identity with reference T. tabaci sequences. The life cycle of T. tabaci was evaluated under controlled conditions on onion (Allium cepa) and runner bean (Phaseolus coccineus). Developmental parameters including egg, nymphal, pupal stages and adult longevity, were recorded on both hosts. Development was significantly faster on runner bean leaves (29.33 ± 5.58 days), while adult longevity was greater on onion leaves (20.07 ± 5.10 days). Mass rearing trials on single-host systems showed that onion leaves supported a higher multiplication fold (4.34 ± 0.63) compared with bean leaves (2.75 ± 0.50) when 100 adults were released. This indicates that the onion is more suitable for oviposition and overall colony buildup than the runner bean under controlled conditions. These findings show how the life cycle of T. tabaci can be regulated by its host. Collectively, onion favoured oviposition and overall colony build-up, while runner bean accelerated immature development-complementary traits that can be leveraged for laboratory culture and bioassay logistics.
Copyright (c) 2025 Aravinthraju Krishnamoorthy, Shanthi Mookiah, Murugan Marimuthu, Manikanda Boopathi Narayanan, Anandham Rangasamy, Srinivasan Ramasamy, Lourena Arone Maxwell https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Trait performance of F1 and F2 generations of rice (Oryza sativa L.) in relation to heterosis and inbreeding depression under saline soils
The extent of heterobeltiosis and economic heterosis of 24 F1s and inbreeding depression in 24 F2 generations, along with the parents, were raised in saline soils and estimated for ten characters under this study. Heterotic effects of 24 F1s revealed high and significant positive heterosis for grain yield in the cross combinations KPS 10640 × KPS 2874, KPS 10631 × KPS 2874, KPS 10642 × KPS 2874, KPS 10640 × RNR11718 and KPS 10633 × RNR11718, according to the results of better parent heterosis. The results of economic heterosis showed and high and significant positive heterosis for grain yield in the cross combinations KPS 10628 × CSR23, KPS 10640 × CSR23, KPS 10633 × RNR 11718, KPS 10651 × CSR36 and KPS 10640 × RNR11718. The range of inbreeding depression for grain yield was 4.09 % (KPS 10631 × CSR 23) to 42.45 % (KPS 10640 × RNR 11718). Twenty-one of the twenty-four crossings showed a substantial and positive inbreeding depression in F2 for grain yield. Not withstanding their grain yield, these F1s exhibited notable heterosis and inbreeding depression for a few key yield-contributing traits. This study showed that non-additive gene action is present in the inheritance of grain yield plant-1, along with several other yield-contributing traits and in the development of cultivars that can withstand salinity for long-term production.
Copyright (c) 2026 P Hima Bindu, K Sumalini, G Shiva Prasad, C H Damodar Raju , R M Sundaram https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Reassessing endemism: Distribution of Microstegium falconeri (Poaceae: Andropogoneae) beyond its known habitats
Biodiversity hotspots are invariably rich in endemic flora and fauna. The Himalayan region, in particular, has long attracted botanists and field taxonomists due to its remarkable floristic diversity. However, recurring questions arise - are endemic species truly restricted in their distribution? Insufficient studies in classical systematic taxonomy, along with limited field exploration in biodiversity-rich regions, often lead to misconceptions about endemism. Such a situation was observed in the case of Microstegium falconeri (Hook.f.) Clayton conducted extensive surveys between 2000 and 2024 across different parts of the Himalaya. This study documented the extended distribution of M. falconeri, a species previously considered endemic to Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. The species has now been reported from other Indian regions, including Jammu & Kashmir and neighbouring countries such as China and Nepal, with an earlier record from Bhutan. The paper provides a comprehensive taxonomic account of the species, including detailed descriptions, illustrations, colour photographs from natural habitats, geo-coordinates of collection sites and notes on flowering and fruiting periods. Notably, this work also reports the recollection of M. falconeri from Himachal Pradesh after more than a century. Furthermore, it highlights the species’ habitat preferences, distribution patterns and conservation status while assessing potential threats to its survival across varied ecosystems. Such a study underscores the importance of continued field-based taxonomic exploration and cautions against the uncritical use of the term “endemic”. True endemism must be reassessed through extensive fieldwork and modern analytical approaches, as existing literature may not always present the complete picture of a species’ rarity or distribution.
Copyright (c) 2025 Kuntal Saha, Manoj Chandran, Ranjana Negi, Saurabh Guleri https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Optimization of growth regulators for efficient callus-mediated organogenesis in ornamental Cordyline
An efficient in vitro regeneration protocol was developed for Cordyline terminalis via indirect organogenesis using different explants and plant growth regulator (PGR) combinations. Nodal segments, shoot tips and leaf bases were cultured on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with varying 6-Benzylaminopurine (BAP), α-Naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) and 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) concentrations. Among the explants, nodal segments showed the highest morphogenic response with early shoot initiation and maximum shoot production. The treatment with BAP 1.0 mg L-1 + NAA 0.5 mg L-1 (H3) recorded the highest callus induction (83.33 %), highest callus intensity (4.40) and callus index (367.00). Media supplemented with 2,4-D promoted early and dense callus formation but resulted in limited shoot regeneration. Callus tissues were subcultured at 3-week intervals onto fresh regeneration medium containing BAP (1.0 mg L-1) + NAA (0.5 mg L-1) to promote shoot differentiation. It resulted in the regeneration of multiple shoot primordia (up to 4-5 shoots per culture). Correlation analysis indicated a strong positive relationship between callus intensity and shoot proliferation efficiency. These results highlight the critical role of explant selection and hormonal balance in optimizing callus-mediated regeneration. The standardized protocol developed in this study can be effectively utilized for the large-scale propagation and conservation of Cordyline terminalis.
Copyright (c) 2026 Sweta Subhashree Jena, Lilymoony Tripathy, Kaberi Maharana, Sashikala Beura, Siddharth Kumar Palai, Pratyush Jena, Meena Wankhade, Shrikrishna Balaso Narale https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Effects of pH, temperature, water activity and electrical conductivity on the biocontrol activity of Trichoderma spp. for enhanced biocontrol efficacy in agriculture
Trichoderma spp. is widely recognized and employed as effective biocontrol agents, providing a natural approach to managing plant diseases. These fungi, commonly found in soil, utilize multiple mechanisms to suppress plant pathogens, making them important tools in sustainable agriculture. However, the biocontrol efficacy of Trichoderma spp. is influenced by several environmental factors that impact their growth, sporulation and antagonistic activity against phytopathogens. This research investigates how abiotic factors such as pH, temperature, water activity (aw) and electrical conductivity (EC) affect the efficacy of Trichoderma spp. as biocontrol agents against plant pathogens. Controlled laboratory tests were evaluated for conidial production, growth rates and morphological changes under varying environmental conditions. The results indicated that the ideal water activity (aw 0.985) and temperature (25 °C) considerably increased conidial production and biomass growth. A pH level of 6.5 and an EC of 12.92 dS/m were identified as ideal conditions for optimal growth and sporulation. These results underscore the importance of environmental factors in improving the effectiveness of Trichoderma spp., offering actionable suggestions to enhance its use as a biocontrol agent across diverse farming systems, while also recognizing the importance of these factors in improving the large-scale production of T. harzianum for both agricultural and industrial purposes, especially in biocontrol application.
Copyright (c) 2025 Navneet Singh, Vipul Kumar, Manoj Kumar Maurya, Gurveer Singh, D K Upadhyay, Anil Kumar , A K Singh, Dalal P K https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Comprehensive quantitative genetic evaluation of phenotypic variability, heritability coefficients and expected genetic gain for yield and its associated traits in bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.) under diverse agro-ecological conditions of the North Indian Plains
The study was conducted over two years to investigate genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance as a percentage of the mean among 40 genotypes of bitter gourd (Momordia charantia L.). The genotypes were cultivated at the Horticulture Research Centre, SVPUAT, Modipuram (Meerut), during the Zaid seasons of 2023 and 2024. The experiment followed a randomized block design (RBD) with three replications and a spacing of 1 m × 0.75 m. A total of sixteen quantative traits were recorded and analyzed to identify genetic factors contributing to enhanced yield potential. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed that mean squares due to genotypes were significant for all the traits studied. The pooled phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) exhibited an average increase of about 5 % over the genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV), with mean values of 11.06 % and 10.07 %, respectively. In 2023, the highest genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation were observed for primary branches per vine (23.24 and 23.57, respectively), whereas in 2024, the maximum values were recorded for total fruit yield per vine (41.93 and 42.22 respectively). Similarly, heritability (broad sense, h2bs) and genetic advance (GA) were highest for primary branches per vine in 2023 (97.28 % and 47.22 %, respectively, while in 2024, total fruit yield per vine recorded the maximum heritability and genetic advance (98.67 % and 85.82 %, respectively). Overall, traits exhibiting high PCV and GCV values corresponded with high heritability and genetic advance estimates for the same characters, indicating the predominance of additive gene action and the potential for improvement through simple selection.
Copyright (c) 2025 Harshit Tomar, Bijendra Singh, Vipin Kumar, Rupesh Kumar, Vaishali, Satya Prakash, L K Gangwar, Krashankant Sharma https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Assessment of genetic variability at morpho-qualitative levels and molecular characterization of selected promising lines of field pea (Pisum sativum L. var. arvense)
A field study was conducted during the rabi season of 2023-24 at the Genetics and Plant Breeding Research Farm of Banda University of Agriculture and Technology, Banda, to characterize 30 diverse field pea (Pisum sativum L. var. arvense) genotypes at the phenotypic and molecular levels. The study utilized two replications in an alpha lattice design with four checks and investigated 16 morpho-qualitative characters. Analysis of variance revealed significant variability among genotypes, with traits such as plant height (PH), number of pods per plant (NPP), number of effective pods per plant (NEPP), biological yield per plant (BYP), seed yield per plant (SYP), total sugars (TS), non-reducing sugars (NRS), reducing sugars (RS) and trypsin inhibitor activity (TIA) showing high values of both phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation (PCV and GCV). These traits also exhibited high heritability and genetic advance as a percent of the mean (GAM), indicating additive gene effects and suggesting their suitability for effective selection. Eighteen field pea genotypes were molecularly characterized using 18 polymorphic SSR markers, revealing 36 alleles and indicating moderate genetic diversity. Primer AA-446 was the most informative, while AD-249 was the least informative. Cluster analysis grouped the genotypes into three distinct clusters and Principal Coordinate Analysis (PCoA) captured 43.36 % of the total genetic variation across the first two axes. These findings confirm sufficient diversity among genotypes for effective selection and future breeding programmes.
Copyright (c) 2026 Shivendra Singh, Dhirendra Kumar Singh, C M Singh, Vijay Sharma, Vishal Chugh, Shalini Purwar, Divya Singh, Akashdeep Bhakta, Mohit Kumar, Nida, Harsh Jainth https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Molecular phylogenetics and morphological diversification in the genus Gagea (Liliaceae)
The genus Gagea exhibits high morphological diversity and complex taxonomy. In this study, we analyzed the phylogenetic relationships and morphological differentiation within Gagea using ITS sequences from 32 species across 9 sections. Bayesian analysis revealed 3 main clades, partially congruent with morphological traits. Our results highlight both the value of molecular data for species delimitation and the need for taxonomic revision due to cases of morphological convergence and incongruence. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of evolutionary patterns in Gagea.
Copyright (c) 2025 Gulsauir Kurbaniyazova, Igor Levichev, Aleksandr Rodionov, Aleksandr Gnutikov, Dilafruz Jamalova, Bobur Karimov, Ibrokhimjon Ergashov, Norxodjayeva Aziza, Kurbaniyazov Bakbergen, Ziyoviddin Yusupov https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Laurus nobilis L. essential oil enhances nutrient retention of Amaranthus viridis L. for longer storage duration
Amaranthus viridis L. (Family: Amaranthaceae) is a nutritious leafy vegetable known for its rich carbohydrates, proteins, moisture, fat and dietary fiber content. However, due to their high-water content and ongoing biological activity, this leafy vegetable is prone to post-harvest deterioration caused by mechanical damage, biochemical changes, aging and microbial contamination. Proper preservation techniques are therefore crucial to maintain their freshness, nutritional value and marketability. Drying is a widely used method that reduces the moisture content and delays the spoilage of vegetables. In recent years, essential oils (EO) have emerged as effective natural preservatives due to their antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. For instance, EO from Laurus nobilis L. (bay leaf) has demonstrated antimicrobial activity against bacteria that cause food spoilage, thereby promoting food safety and sustainable, health-conscious consumption. However, the specific effect of L. nobilis EO (LnEO) on the retention of the nutritional composition and antioxidant activities of leafy vegetables, including A. viridis, has not yet been reported. Hence, in the present study, the influences of different concentrations (1 %, 1.5 %, 2 %, 2.5 % and 3 %) of L. nobilis LnEO on oven-dried A. viridis were evaluated in terms of nutritional and antioxidant activities over a storage period of up to two months (60 days). Results indicated that the 3 % LnEO treatment was the most effective, maintaining the highest levels of crude fiber, nitrogen, protein, fat, carbohydrates, antioxidants and minerals even after 60 days. These findings suggest that using 3 % EO in oven-dried A. viridis significantly enhances post-harvest nutrient retention. This will provide valuable information for researchers, development partners and farmers engaged in both subsistence and commercial agriculture to support food security and easier market access in rural communities.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ritima Mishra, Jutishna Bora , Nabanita Bhattacharyya https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Early detection of rice blast disease using hyperspectral remote sensing
We presented an integrative hyperspectral approach for the rapid and non-invasive detection of rice blast (Magnaporthe oryzae) that moves beyond traditional index-based methods. Leaf and canopy-level reflectance data (350 nm- 2500 nm) were smoothed using Savitzky - Golay polynomials, standardised with Standard Normal Variate (SNV) and Multiplicative Scatter Correction (MSC) and then differentiated to highlight subtle infection signals. Dimensionality reduction methods including Principal Component Analysis (PCA), t-Distributed Stochastic Neighbour Embedding (t-SNE) and Uniform Manifold Approximation and Projection (UMAP) revealed clear separations between healthy and diseased spectra, while cosine similarity and the Spectral Angle Mapper (SAM) measured illumination-invariant spectral differences. A Random Forest impurity analysis identified the ten most informative wavelengths, enabling the evaluation of over one million band combinations. From this, we developed the Rice Blast Index (RBI = (R1068 - R1560) / (R1068 + R1560)), which outperformed Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and Photochemical Reflectance Index (PRI), achieving an F1-score of 0.95 and Cohen’s κ of 0.93 across independent growing seasons. New structural diagnostics, including lagged correlation, spectral autocorrelation and feature persistence, were introduced to quantify redundancy and identify stable biochemical absorption zones, notably a 38 nm region around 680 nm and a 1470 nm region linked with chlorophyll - protein features. Outlier spectra were removed with an Isolation Forest algorithm, improving robustness by 4.7 %. The average processing time was 18 ms per spectrum, enabling real-time scouting. Together, these elements deliver a unified, end-to-end framework that combines advanced pre-processing, dimensionality reduction, anomaly rejection, machine-learning-based band selection and new structural metrics. This framework improves early rice blast surveillance and offers a transferable template for hyperspectral phenotyping of diverse crop stresses, effectively bridging fine-scale sensitivity with field-scale applicability in precision agriculture.
Copyright (c) 2026 Selvaprakash Ramalingam, Rabi N Sahoo, Aundy Kumar, Rajeev Ranjan, Viswanathan Chinnasamy https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
In vitro rooting and ex vitro acclimatization protocol for Cordyline terminalis (L.) Kunth
An efficient in vitro rooting and ex vitro acclimatization protocol was developed for Cordyline terminalis (L.) Kunth, commonly known as the Ti plant, an economically important ornamental foliage species. The study was conducted at the Biotechnology-cum-Tissue Culture Centre, All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Floriculture and Landscaping, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar. Nodal segments were cultured on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with various concentrations and combinations of 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP), α-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) and 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) for shoot initiation and organogenesis. Among the combinations tested, BAP (1.0 mg L-1) and NAA (0.5 mg L-1) induced the highest shoot proliferation and morphogenetic response. For rooting, both in vitro and ex vitro approaches were evaluated. In vitro rooting was achieved on plant growth regulator (PGR)-free half-strength MS medium, while ex vitro rooting was optimized using quick dips in indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) at 25 ppm, which yielded the highest rooting percentage (96.6 %), root number (3.6) and root length (3.90 cm) in potting mixture. Hardening was performed under open conditions, plastic cover and net house environments using various substrates. The highest survival (40 %) was recorded in the net house using a vermiculite + sand substrate, which although moderate, represented the most effective survival outcome under tropical field conditions. Additionally, nutritional standardization trials revealed that soil drenching with nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium (NPK) (19:19:19) at 0.75 g plant-1 significantly improved plant height and leaf number, while foliar application enhanced leaf length and breadth. This comprehensive protocol demonstrates the potential for mass propagation of C. terminalis with high rooting efficiency and improved survival rate. The findings provide a practical, reproducible and cost-effective strategy for sustainable micropropagation and commercial-scale cultivation of this valuable ornamental species.
Copyright (c) 2026 Sweta Subhashree Jena, Lilymoony Tripathy, Hafeef Roshan K T, Vishal Patel, Jeegarkumar Panchal, Madhurjit Singh Rathore, Lalit Upadhyay, Yandava Swarupa, Pratyush Jena, Kumaresan Marappan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Evaluation of hydrological properties of gypsiferous soils cultivated with wheat under varying gypsum content
Gypsum-rich soils are widespread and play a significant role in agricultural productivity and water management, especially in arid and semi-arid regions. Understanding the effect of gypsum content on soil water movement is essential for optimizing irrigation and soil conservation in wheat-based systems. This study, conducted on wheat-cultivated soils under field conditions, aimed to evaluate key hydrological properties across varying gypsum levels. The gypsum levels in the studied soils were 45, 92, 156, 248, 468 and 583 g kg-1. Field infiltration rates were measured using the double-ring infiltrometer method and sorptivity was estimated using standard infiltration models. Saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ks) was also determined for each soil type. The pattern of cumulative infiltration generally mirrored the upward trend in Ks, underscoring the close relationship between infiltration dynamics and saturated hydraulic conductivity. Cumulative infiltration varied irregularly with gypsum content, ranging from 1.4 to 8.7 cm. Results showed a general increase in saturated hydraulic conductivity with increasing gypsum content, likely due to enhanced soil structure and macroporosity at higher gypsum levels. The Philip and Smith & Knight models provided more consistent predictions of water movement over longer infiltration times. The findings highlight the importance of gypsum content as a key factor influencing soil water behavior and provide insight into selecting appropriate models for estimating infiltration parameters. These results are particularly relevant for irrigation design and soil management in wheat cultivation on gypsiferous soils.
Copyright (c) 2026 Imad T Dahham, Hiba A Kareem, Awss M Khairo, Mustafa Qais Hamid https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Multivariate analysis of morphological diversity in six orange carrot germplasms cultivated in semi-arid regions of Algeria
This study explores the morphological differentiation among six orange carrot germplasms, Muscad d’Alger, Touchon, Breclium, Nantaise, Super Muscad and Nantaise améliorée, cultivated under semi-arid conditions in Algeria. A total of 30 morphological descriptors, based on criteria from both the International Union for the Protection of New Varieties of Plants (UPOV) and the International Plant Genetic Resources Institute (IPGRI), were utilised to evaluate phenotypic variability and identify the most informative traits for diversity assessment, to leverage them in selection and improvement programs. The descriptors encompassed structural features of the plant, leaf morphology and root characteristics. To quantify diversity and identify classification patterns, Shannon–Weaver diversity index (H’), Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and hierarchical clustering were applied. The H’ values varied widely, from 0 (e.g., root branching) to 1.32 for traits such as the length-to-width ratio of the root, shape of the root in longitudinal section, diameter of the core relative to total diameter, extent of green pigmentation in longitudinal section, root emergence above soil level and timing of root tip colouration. The average H’ across all descriptors and populations was 1.32, indicating a high level of morphological diversity. PCA results revealed that 11 out of the 30 traits contributed most significantly to the observed variance, underscoring their potential utility in discriminating between genotypes. Further multivariate analyses, including factorial correspondence and cluster analyses, which incorporated four qualitative, four pseudo-qualitative and twenty-two quantitative traits, enabled the grouping of the studied varieties into three distinct clusters. The first cluster contained Muscad varieties, the second included Touchon and Breclium, while the third comprised Nantaise and its improved variant. These findings provide a valuable framework for the strategic selection, conservation and utilisation of orange carrot germplasms in breeding programs adapted to semi-arid environments.
Copyright (c) 2025 Hadj Kouider Boubakr, Benmehaia Radhouane, Lallouche Bahia https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Production of microgreens under a vertical hydroponic system for nutritional and environmental security
Urban farming systems play a pivotal role in providing fresh, nutritious vegetables to consumers. Microgreens specifically can fit this need. The present study was carried out in the Department of Horticulture, Central University of Tamil Nadu, Thiruvarur, during the period 2023 to 24. To analyse the suitability of microgreens for urban farming, four different microgreens, namely purple radish (Raphanus sativus), fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum), red amaranth (Amaranthus tricolor) and coriander (Coriandrum sativum) were grown under a vertical ‘A’ frame hydroponic system using palmyra fibre waste as root supporting material. The experiment was laid out in a factorial completely randomised block design (FCRD) with different types of containers as a one factor and different nutrient solutions as another factor. Growth parameters (Germination %, length of seedling, yield) and biochemical parameters (carbohydrate, protein, vitamin C, total chlorophyll, carotenoids, total phenol, flavonoids, antioxidants) were documented in all four microgreens. Elemental profiling (29 mineral nutrients) of microgreens samples was done. The results of the experiment indicated that ‘protray on plastic tray’ as a container performed superiorly. Among the nutrient solutions, vermiwash and seaweed extract gave the best results. The interaction between the type of containers and nutrient solutions showed that the combination of protray on a plastic tray with vermiwash solution and seaweed extract performed best for microgreens species. Improved germination and yield of microgreens in plastic tray containers can be attributed to their superior moisture retention. Vermiwash and seaweed extract enhanced the yield and nutrient content of microgreens, as these are rich in micro, macro nutrients and plant growth-promoting hormones. The carbon sequestering ability of individual microgreens was also recorded. In conclusion, this study underscores the potential of vertical hydroponic systems for microgreens production, offering both nutritional and environmental benefits.
Copyright (c) 2026 Preethi S, Manivannan S, Senthilkumar S, Ramesh Kumar A, Indian G, Sivanesan K, Bhuvaneshwari K https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Floral resources as ecological tools to enhance natural enemies for pest management in rice ecosystem
Conservation biological control in rice ecosystems can be promoted through habitat management by providing natural enemies with various resources, such as nectar, pollen, physical refugia, alternative prey and hosts. Laboratory and field studies were conducted to identify the most attractive flowering plants to natural enemies in paddy fields and to evaluate their efficacy in pest management. Olfactometric studies revealed that flowers of marigold, cowpea and sesame attracted major predators in paddy fields, such as Micraspis discolor, Ophionea nigrofasciata and Cyrtorhinus lividipennis and parasitoids Trichogramma chilonis and T. japonicum. Habitat management with flowering plants, around the paddy bunds, significantly increased the abundance and diversity of key natural enemies, followed by a reduction in pest population. A higher population of natural enemies viz., coccinellids, ground beetles, rove beetles, mirid bugs, damselflies and spiders were recorded in plot with flowering plants. This plot recorded the highest yield of 529.73 g m-2, while the lowest was in the control plot, with a yield of 263.46 g m-2. The cost-benefit ratio of paddy cultivation showed the highest benefit-cost ratio (BCR) in the plot with flowering plants (2.16), followed by conventional (1.96) and farmers' practice (1.83). The lowest BC ratio of 0.95 was recorded in the control. The study highlighted the role of flowering plants in enhancing the natural enemy population in paddy fields and the augmentation of biocontrol services.
Copyright (c) 2026 Meera Krishnan, P Sreeja, K Karthikeyan, Smitha Revi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Phytochemical profiling and functional evaluation of botanical extracts for herbicidal and growth-promoting activities
Weed management remains a major challenge in organic and natural farming, where synthetic herbicides are avoided. In this study, extracts of three botanicals Cymbopogon citratus (CC), Lantana camara (LC) and Mangifera indica (MI) were prepared using cow urine and water to explore their potential as natural herbicides. Metabolomic and mineral analyses revealed distinct chemical profiles, with cow urine extraction enhancing the release of bioactive compounds and nutrients. Weed suppression efficiency (WSE) showed a clear dose-dependent response, with the cow urine extract of CC (CCCU) achieving the highest activity (up to 31.89 %), outperforming water-based extracts and other botanicals. The superior performance of CCCU was linked to its higher phenolic and flavonoid content. Although less potent than synthetic herbicides, these botanicals offer dual benefits of weed suppression and nutrient enrichment, highlighting their potential role in sustainable and eco-friendly farming practices.
Copyright (c) 2025 Meryani M Lotha, Ponnusamy Janaki, Ramanujam Krishnan, Mariappan Suganthy, Etiyagounder Parameswari, Vadivel Vinothkumar, Muringatheri Ramaiyer Latha https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Physical fruit growth dynamics in guava (Psidium guajava L.) genotypes
Guava (Psidium guajava L.) is a widely cultivated tropical fruit crop valued for its nutritional richness, adaptability and economic importance. This study aimed to investigate the developmental progression of key fruit traits across eleven diverse guava genotypes during the winter season. Fruits were sampled at five growth stages, i.e. 35, 65, 75, 85 days after flowering (DAF) and at physiological maturity (PM) and were evaluated for fruit weight, length, width, seed core diameter and pulp thickness. Significant variation (p ≤ 0.05) was observed among genotypes and across stages for all traits, with the highest values occurring at the PM stage. Genotypes such as Sasni and VNR Bihi recorded the highest values for various fruit physical traits, making them good material for breeding programs focused on fruit size and pulp content. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) revealed that the first three components accounted for 79.46 % of the total variability among genotypes. PC1 (48.97 %) was primarily associated with fruit weight, diameter and seed core diameter at later stages. PC2 (16.15 %) reflected variation in pulp thickness and seed core diameter at mid stages, while PC3 (14.34 %) captured additional differences in fruit length and pulp thickness at maturity. This study provides insights into stage-wise fruit development, enabling future researchers to identify the most appropriate growth stages for recording key fruit traits. These insights will support precise phenotyping and strengthen selection decisions in guava breeding and improvement programs.
Copyright (c) 2025 Shubham Jagga, Madhubala Thakre, Poonam Maurya, Pooja Singh, Chukkamettu Anusha, Ladup Lepcha, Rakesh Bhardwaj, Amit Kumar Goswami, Chavlesh Kumar, Nayan Deepak Gangappa, Arumugam Nagaraja, Manish Srivastav, Eldho Varghese, Amitha Mithra Sevanthi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Enhancing pollination efficiency in onion (Allium cepa L.) using indigenous bee attractants
A two-year field experiment (2023-24 and 2024-25) was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of indigenous bee attractants-such as coconut water, pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) juice and dates (Phoenix dactylifera L.) extract on the foraging activity of honeybee (Apis mellifera L.) and the stingless bee (Tetragonula iridipennis) in onion (Allium cepa L.). Attractants were applied at critical flowering stages and bee visitation rates were recorded at different intervals after application. Both pomegranate juice and dates extract at 10 % concentration significantly increased visitation rates of A. mellifera and T. iridipennis compared to coconut water, with peak activity occurring on the 3rd and 5th days following the second spray. The results revealed that fruit-based attractants are more effective in enhancing mean bee visitation rates, improving foraging consistency and producing statistically significant differences (p < 0.05). Enhanced pollinator activity was associated with improved pollination efficiency, supporting the likelihood of yield gains. The findings highlight the feasibility of incorporating locally available, eco-friendly attractants into onion seed production systems to sustainably increase pollinator-mediated productivity. Adoption of such natural attractants could serve as a low-cost, eco-friendly strategy to address pollination gaps and enhance seed yield in short-day onion cultivars.
Copyright (c) 2025 Pandit T R, Dwivedi S A, V Karuppaiah https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Molecular screening of parental lines and trait association for grain protein content in F2 population of rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Rice grain protein is the second most abundant component of milled rice grain and has been extensively studied due to its significant role as a nutrient. There are very limited high grain protein varieties identified. Therefore, studying the genetics of grain protein, yield and quality traits is essential for developing a breeding program that will increase yield while maintaining rice quality. The key purpose of this research work was to identify lines with high protein content. Three diverse parents (RDR 1295, JAK 686 and JAK 685) were screened using 27 already reported grain protein markers in rice. Among these markers, 6 markers were linked with JAK 686 parent, while a single marker was linked to JAK 685 parent. So, these identified high-protein donors (JAK 686 and JAK 685) were then crossed with low-protein genotype (RDR 1295) during kharif 2020. In this study, F2 segregating populations from 2 different cross combinations in rice RDR 1295 x JAK 686 (Cross-I) and RDR 1295 x JAK 685 (Cross-II) were studied. Character association studies revealed that plant height (0.108), kernel length (0.077), kernel width (0.025) and L/B ratio (0.045) have shown a clear positive correlation with grain protein content (GPC) for Cross-I and in Cross-II, panicle length (0.041), test weight (0.065), kernel length (0.138) and kernel width (0.101) have positive association with protein content. Path coefficient analysis further indicated that, in Cross-I, kernel length (1.247) exhibited the highest direct and positive effect on GPC. In Cross-II, the number of productive tillers per plant (0.183) showed highest direct and positive influence on GPC. The key traits identified include kernel length and kernel width, as both high correlation coefficients and direct effects displayed strong association with GPC.
Copyright (c) 2026 Gugulothu Prasanna, Lavuri Krishna, Jukanti Aravind Kumar, Kuna Aparna, Sadu Narendar Reddy, Vishal Kumar Gupta, Ajaz A Lone https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
First record of wood-rotting fungal diversity in dry deciduous forest of Savandurga, Karnataka, India
Wood-rotting fungi (WRF) are renowned for their ecological roles, medicinal properties and ligninolytic capabilities. A survey was conducted from April 2023 to December 2024 in the Savandurga dry deciduous forest, Ramanagara district of Bengaluru, Karnataka, India, an area characterised by dense bamboo groves, shrubs and diverse tree species. The study aimed to collect, identify and document WRF using an integrative approach to morphological analysis. The survey identified 32 wood-rotting fungal species associated with different hosts, which includes Arcyria denudata Fr., Auricularia auricula-judae (Bull.) Quél., Coprinellus disseminatus (Pers.) J.E. Lange, Cantharellus spathularia (Schwein.) Schwein., Daldinia concentrica (Bolton) Ces. & De Not., Entonaema splendens (Berk. & M.A. Curtis) Lloyd, Fomitopsis quercina (L.) Spirin & Miettinen, Fulvifomes robiniae (Murrill) Murrill, Fuscoporia gilva (Schwein.) T. Wagner & M. Fisch., Ganoderma adspersum (Schulzer) Donk, G. applanatum (Pers.) Pat., G. gibbosum (Blume & T. Nees) Pat., G. lucidum (Curtis) P. Karst., G. sessile Murrill, Pseudofavolus tenuis (Fr.) G. Cunn., Bull., Inonotus obliquus (Fr.) Pilát, Lentinus polychrous Lév., Collybia nuda (Bull.) Z.M. He & Zhu L. Yang, Marasmius haematocephalus (Mont.) Fr., Microporus xanthopus (Fr.) Kuntze, Lentinus sajor-caju (Fr.) Fr., Fabisporus sanguineus (L.) Zmitr., Schizophyllum commune Fr., Stemonitis splendens Rostaf., Trametes gibbosa (Pers.) Fr., Earliella scabrosa (Pers.) Gilb. & Ryvarden, Xylaria hypoxylon (L.) Grev., X. longipes Nitschke, X. polymorpha (Pers.) Grev., were new reports to Savandurga and Candolleomyces asiaticus Asif, Izhar, Niazi & Khalid and Cellulariella acuta (Berk.) Zmitr. & Malysheva are reported for the first time from India macro– and microscopic characteristics provide information about the diversity of wood-rotting fungi in the region.
Copyright (c) 2026 Bharath Kumar S, Tejashwini K, Stephen A, Praveen Kumar Nagadesi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Terrestrial orchids: The Hidden Jewels of Kamrup, Assam, India
The present study investigates the diversity of terrestrial orchid species in Kamrup district, Assam, based on extensive field surveys conducted across all the season from 2021 to 2025. The study employed with herbarium preparation and identification followed by standard protocol and using authentic literature. A total of 10 species were collected, representing 8 genera, with Zeuxine being the most dominating with 3 species. Each species described included their taxonomy, habitats and flowering periods. Most importantly, the work reports four rare species which underpin the ecological importance and conservation priority of these ground orchids in Kamrup. This work highlights the need to focus on understudied terrestrial orchids to protect and conserve them. Conserving orchids is essential because they are highly sensitive ecological indicator and contribute significantly to the ecosystem stability.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mustafizur Rahman, Rakesh Kalita, Deepjyoti Medhi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Pectin micro-encapsulation of pretilachlor for smart herbicide delivery through biopolymer guided slow release
Conventional pretilachlor formulation faces quick dissipation, leaching, and reduced efficacy. The present study aimed to synthesize encapsulated pretilachlor using pectin to achieve sustained release by optimising counter-ion solution and herbicide concentration. Pretilachlor was microencapsulated with 6 % pectin via ionotropic gelation using 2 % calcium chloride (CaCl2), barium chloride (BaCl2), zinc sulphate (ZnSO4) and zinc acetate as cross-linking baths. Herbicide concentrations of 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0 mL were evaluated. Morphological and encapsulation properties were characterized through phase contrast microscope, field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), Fourier transformed infra-red (FTIR) spectroscopy and EDS. Encapsulation efficiency and release profiles were determined via UV-Vis spectrophotometry and analysed using mathematical kinetic models. The extrusion of 6 % pectin solution into 2 % cross-linking baths produced beads of varying shapes, with BaCl2 yielding the most uniform and stable spherical microspheres. The mean diameter of the beads increased from 1.25 to 1.71 mm as pretilachlor concentration increased from 0.5 to 2.0 mL. Encapsulation efficiency and swelling percentage were highest at 0.5 mL concentration (69.4 % and 66.7 %), followed by 1.0 mL (64.04 % and 61.4 %) and 2.0 mL (59.36 % and 61.8 %), respectively. Structural analyses confirmed uniform encapsulation and stable microsphere formation and the encapsulated formulations exhibited a slow and sustained release pattern governed by first-order diffusion-controlled kinetics, in contrast to the rapid initial burst observed in the commercial formulation. Overall, encapsulating 0.5 mL of pretilachlor in 6 % pectin emerged as the most suitable treatment, offering improved encapsulation efficiency, higher swelling capacity and steady herbicide release for effective application.
Copyright (c) 2025 S Vignesh, P Murali Arthanari, R Kalpana, P Janaki, S Karthikeyan, R Umarani https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Harnessing hybrid vigor: Heterosis and combining ability analysis for enhanced yield in American cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)
Harnessing heterosis is an effective strategy to improve cotton yield and fiber quality. The present investigation was undertaken to evaluate the magnitude of heterosis and combining ability for yield and fiber-related traits in cotton. A line × tester mating design involving six lines and two testers generated twelve F1 hybrids, along with their parents and two commercial checks, were evaluated in a randomised block design with two replications at the Regional Agricultural Research Station (RARS), Warangal, Telangana, during Kharif 2024-2025. Data on yield and fiber quality parameters were analyzed using analysis of variance and heterosis and their effects were estimated. WGCV-372 emerged as the best general combiner (general combining ability (GCA) effect) for net plot yield/kg and boll weight. WGCV Bt-60 exhibited positive GCA for boll weight, lint index, seed index and yield, indicating multi-trait superiority. The hybrids WGCV Bt-60 × PKV 081 Bt, WGCV Bt-60 × WGCV Bt-108 and WGCV-252 x PKV 081 Bt show strong heterosis improvement in yield, plant height, boll weight and fiber quality. The cross WGCV-252 × PKV 081 Bt showing strongest heterosis for boll weight with 39.1 % over mid-parent, 29.9 % over better parent and a 12.2 % increase over RCH 929 (check), indicating its potential to improve fiber yield components. WGCV Bt-60 × WGCV Bt-108 showed significant positive specific combining ability (SCA) for plant height, number of bolls per plant and net plot yield/kg. WGCV-413 × PKV 081 Bt exhibited positive SCA for plant height, monopodia, sympodia and number of bolls per plant. WGCV-252 × WGCV Bt-108 showed a significant positive SCA for lint index and ginning outturn (GOT %).
Copyright (c) 2025 Y Prashanth, G Veeranna, S Omprakash, D Ashwini, B Edukondalu, R Uma Reddy https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Taxonomic notes on the status of Syzygium caryophyllatum var. abrahamianum (Myrtaceae)
Syzygium caryophyllatum var. abrahamianum Shareef & E.S.S. Kumar is elevated to specific rank.
Copyright (c) 2026 Sainudeen Muhammed Shareef, Ettickal Sukumaran Santhosh Kumar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Multi class tea leaf disease classification using feature level and output level ensemble strategies with Grad-CAM visualization
Tea is one of the most widely consumed drinks in the world and plays an important role in the economy of tea-growing regions. However, leaf diseases are a major problem for the tea industry because they lower both yield and quality, directly affecting tea growers’ livelihoods and the overall supply chain. Therefore, detecting these diseases in their early stages is important for healthy crop growth and good yield. In traditional practice, disease identification is carried out through field inspection or laboratory testing by expert farmers and plant pathologists. However, these methods are slow, require a lot of manual work and may sometimes lead to errors, making them difficult to adopt for large-scale cultivation. This study presents a novel deep learning-based methodology for eight-class tea leaf disease classification, exploring feature-level and output-level ensemble strategies. Four widely used convolutional neural networks (CNNs)-ResNet-18, VGG-16, InceptionV3 and MobileNetV2-pretrained on ImageNet were utilized. In the feature-based approach, deep features extracted from these models were compressed using principal component analysis (PCA) and classified using a Random Forest classifier, achieving an accuracy of 95.6 %. In the output-based approach, probability predictions from the above CNNs were combined, resulting in a higher accuracy of 98.3 %. Grad-CAM visualizations confirmed that the models consistently highlighted symptomatic leaf regions, improving interpretability and user trust.
Copyright (c) 2026 Kandarpa Kalita, Kishore Medhi, Sanjeet Kumar Borah, Aniruddha Deka, Sunandan Baruah https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Modelling and forecasting of turmeric in Andhra Pradesh
In India, turmeric holds a special place as both a spice and a medicinal crop, with South India being the leading region for its cultivation and trade. Given its economic importance, the present study examines developments in acreage, output and yield of turmeric in Andhra Pradesh from 1954 to 2023, using data collected from India stats and analyzed through GRETL and MS Excel. The compound annual growth rates (CAGR) were calculated across eight sub-periods to identify cultivation trends. The results indicate that from 1954 to 1993, turmeric area, production and yield showed a steady increase, but began declining thereafter, largely influenced by regional restructuring and the state bifurcation. Furthermore, for forecasting, the Box-Jenkins ARIMA methodology was applied, selecting models based on autocorrelation functions and criteria such as AIC, RMSE, MAE, MAPE (minimum) and R² (maximum) values. The ARIMA (1,1,10) model was deemed suitable for forecasting area and yield, while the ARIMA (1, 1, 9) model was appropriate for production, both achieving a 95 % accuracy level. Projections suggest a declining trend in turmeric cultivation, with area and production expected to decrease to 9.33 (000 ha) and 108.12 (000) MT, respectively, by 2030-31. These findings highlight the necessity for strategic interventions to stabilize and enhance turmeric farming in the region, providing a foundation for policymakers to address sustainability and productivity challenges.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mahima Priyanka Neerugatti, R R Kushwaha, Harshit Mishra, Monmath Gopal, Sujitha T, Devika Suresh https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Morpho-anatomical investigation and metabolic profiling of Gastrochilus calceolaris (Buch.-Ham. ex Sm.) D.Don: A critically endangered epiphytic orchid
Gastrochilus calceolaris (Buch.-Ham. ex Sm.) D.Don, commonly known as the shoe-shaped belly-lip orchid, is a rare monopodial epiphytic orchid of high medicinal value. The present study provides the first integrated morpho-anatomical and metabolic profiling of this critically endangered species. Morphological and anatomical observations revealed distinct xerophytic adaptations, including a thick cuticle, well-developed velamen and prominent vascular bundles, which enable drought tolerance. Preliminary phytochemical screening of the methanolic leaf extract confirmed the presence of diverse secondary metabolites, including alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins and phenols. Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) identified 43 phytoconstituents, of which major compounds such as 3-Heptyn-1-ol and 3-heptyn-1-ol are known for their antioxidant, antifungal and anti-inflammatory activities. These findings highlight the pharmacological and conservation significance of G. calceolaris, providing a baseline for future bioprospecting and in vitro conservation strategies.
Copyright (c) 2025 Anukriti, Nainsy Gill, Kajal Choudhary, Mukesh Verma, Shelja, Jitender Kumar, Harsharan Singh, Pankaj Bagga https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Molecular and morphological characterization reveals high genetic diversity among okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench) genotypes
This study investigated the genetic diversity of 25 okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench) genotypes using phenotypic and molecular characterization methods. Phenotypic analysis of 11 quantitative traits revealed significant divergence among accessions, particularly for traits such as the coefficient of infection, average fruit weight, fruit yield and number of fruits per plant. High Phenotypic Coefficient of Variation (PCV) and Genotypic Coefficient of Variation (GCV) values were observed for plant height, number of branches per plant, number of nodes per plant, average fruit weight, fruit yield and coefficient of infection. High heritability with genetic advance as a percentage of mean was observed for plant height, number of branches per plant, number of nodes per plant, internodal length, number of fruits per plant, fruit length, fruit girth, average fruit weight, fruit yield and coefficient of infection. The germplasm was categorised into six groups after Mahalanobis D2 analysis. Molecular characterisation of the 50 SSR markers identified substantial genetic diversity. 21 markers were polymorphic, exhibiting 2-4 alleles per locus. Fifteen SSR markers showed high polymorphism information content values exceeding 0.5, with a range of 0.41 to 0.8. Jaccard's similarity coefficient ranged from 0.17 to 0.86 (average 0.63). Phenotypic and molecular analyses clustered the genotypes into six distinct groups, underscoring the considerable genetic variability within the studied okra germplasm. These findings provide valuable resources for future okra breeding programs.
Copyright (c) 2026 Periyasamy Satheeshkumar, Murugan Sivaraman, Thayumanavan Sabesan, Sundaramoorthy Suganthi, Balraj Ramya https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Phytochemical profiling and evaluation of the anticancer activity of Euphorbia peplus ethyl acetate extract against prostate cancer cells
Because of its abundance of bioactive components, Euphorbia peplus, sometimes referred to as small spurge, is a herbaceous plant belonging to the Euphorbiaceae family that has long been utilized for a variety of therapeutic uses. This study explores the phytochemical content and anticancer potential of E. peplus. After collecting, drying and grinding every part of the plant into a powder, the bioactive components were extracted using a Soxhlet device and ethyl acetate as a solvent. The plant's various chemical components were identified using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Numerous beneficial substances were also discovered through phytochemical analyses. Salicylic acid, resveratrol, epicatechin and apigenin are among the compounds that have not been previously identified or validated in E. peplus, according to a prior literature review. As a result, these substances might be regarded as new or unproven in this species, underscoring the possibility of finding phytochemicals that have not yet been identified. The MTT assay was used to assess the extracts' anticancer efficacy at various doses. With an IC₅₀ value of 162.5 µg/mL, the ethyl acetate extract demonstrated notable cytotoxic activity in a concentration- and time-dependent manner, suggesting increased efficacy with time. These results show that E. peplus is a good source of bioactive compounds with strong anticancer effects. Such findings highlight the potential of underexplored Euphorbia species growing in Iraq as a promising natural resource for future pharmacological applications. These findings emphasize the importance of further detailed in vivo and mechanistic studies to validate the bioactivity and explore therapeutic applications of E. peplus in cancer treatment. To support their possible usage in upcoming pharmaceutical applications, more research is advised to extract, identify and assess these components in vivo.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mustafa Mahmood Hasan, Thukaa Z Abdul-Jalil https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Genetic studies on Quality Protein Maize (QPM) for variability and diversity analysis under temperate conditions (Zea mays L.)
Despite significant progress in maize improvement, information on the extent of genetic variability and trait relationships in Quality Protein Maize (QPM) germplasm under temperate conditions remains limited, constraining effective selection for yield and nutritional quality. The present investigation was conducted to assess genetic variability, heritability, character associations and genetic divergence among 50 QPM genotypes, including five checks. The experiment was laid out in an augmented block design (ABD) without replications at the Dryland Agriculture Research Station (DARS), Budgam and observations were recorded on 13 morphological and quality traits. A wide range of variability was observed for all traits. The phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) and genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) were in a moderate range for most of the characters except for the number of days to maturity, shelling percentage and protein content. High heritability of characters like grain yield, kernels cob-1, number of cobs plant-1 and 100-seed weight, along with extensive genetic advance, suggests that additive gene effects are playing a predominant role and direct selection will be effective for improvement of these traits. After correlation analysis, it was observed that grain yield was robustly and positively allied with plant height, ear height, number of cobs plant-1, cob length, kernel rows cob-1, kernels cob-1 and 100-seed weight, whereas protein content showed negative association with yield. Genetic divergence assessed through Mahalanobis D² statistics classified the genotypes into eight clusters, with the highest inter-cluster distance observed between cluster IV and cluster VIII with 341.59, indicating scope for heterotic hybrid development. The mean grain yield was highest in cluster II, while superior protein content was observed in clusters III and cluster VIII. The current findings identified ten early-maturing genotypes with commendable yield and protein content, which can be effectively used in QPM breeding programs aimed at improving productivity and nutritional quality.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ajaz A Lone, Mohd Wassim Alie, Bipasha Datta, Sagar, Valeeta Marina Dsouza, Aman Tutlani, Amit Lohar, Dhamni Patyal, Shourabh Joshi, Vishva Deepak Chaturvedi, Sapna Jarial, Zahoor A Dar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Seed yield and quality response to boron and zinc across growth stages in foxtail millet (Setaria italica (L.) P. Beauv.)
A field experiment was conducted during the post-rainy seasons of 2020-21 and 2021-22 at the ICAR-Indian Institute of Millets Research, Hyderabad, using a split-plot design to evaluate the effects of boron (B) (0.5 %), zinc (Zn) (1 %) and their combination (B + Zn) applied through foliar sprays at panicle initiation (PI), 50 % flowering (FL), both stages (PI + FL) and as soil application (before sowing) on the growth, yield and seed quality of foxtail millet (cv. SiA 3156). Dual-stage foliar sprays of both B and Zn recorded maximum plant height (118 cm), productive tillers per plant (5), primary branches per panicle (119), panicle dry weight (10 g), seed yield per plot (1.40 kg), 100-seed weight (356 mg) and harvest index (48 %). The same treatment also produced superior seed quality traits with 100 % germination, 95 % field emergence and maximum seedling vigor indices indicating the synergistic effect of B and Zn. Foliar application treatments consistently outperformed soil application across both the years. Economic analysis indicated that foliar application of Zn (1 %) at both PI and FL stages recorded the highest benefit–cost ratio (1.6), while combined B (0.5 %) + Zn (1 %) application achieved the highest seed yield. The study highlighted that combining foliar applications of Zn and B at PI and FL significantly enhances plant growth, seed yield and physiological seed quality, underscoring its value as an efficient and sustainable seed production strategy in foxtail millet grown in micronutrient-deficient soils.
Copyright (c) 2026 Kannababu N, Gangaiah B, Swarna R, Niveditha M, Sangappa, Hariprasanna K, Das I K, Tara Satyavathi C https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Effects of selective insecticides on Zeugodacus cucurbitae (Diptera: Tephritidae) reared on bitter gourd under laboratory conditions
Chemical control has traditionally served as the principal method for managing pests in cucurbit crops; however, the urgent need to mitigate environmental risks and ensure food safety has driven the exploration of sustainable alternatives. The present study was carried out during Kharif 2024 at the Entomology Laboratory, ICAR–Indian Institute of Vegetable Research, Varanasi, to evaluate the influence of insecticides from diverse chemical groups on the biology and morphometrics of the melon fruit fly, Zeugodacus cucurbitae. The test insecticides included chlorantraniliprole, cyantraniliprole, thiamethoxam, imidacloprid, indoxacarb and azadirachtin. Their effects were examined on developmental duration, adult longevity, oviposition period, fecundity and body dimensions. The results revealed that anthranilic diamides exerted the most pronounced impact. Chlorantraniliprole and cyantraniliprole markedly prolonged developmental time (female longevity of 37.23 and 33.76 days, respectively, versus 30.82 days in control) and azadirachtin, as well as cyantraniliprole, significantly suppressed fecundity (52.40 and 54.26 eggs compared with 81.40 in control). Among concentrations, imidacloprid at 16 ppm (45.33 eggs) and azadirachtin at 16 ppm (50.48 eggs) per female adult caused the greatest reduction in fecundity, whereas indoxacarb at 4 ppm showed minimal effect (79.78 eggs). Morphometric traits were similarly affected, with chlorantraniliprole reducing larval length (1st instar 1.49 mm and 3rd instar 9.15 mm against 1.85 mm and 10.05 mm in control) and adult female width (13.55-14.41 mm vs 15.79 mm in control). Indoxacarb responses closely resembled control, while azadirachtin produced intermediate suppression. Overall, the findings indicate that anthranilic diamides, particularly chlorantraniliprole and cyantraniliprole, along with the botanically derived azadirachtin, are promising candidates for disrupting the growth and reproduction of Z. cucurbitae. When used in rotation or integrated with botanicals and ecological strategies, these insecticides can form a sustainable foundation for melon fruit fly management.
Copyright (c) 2026 Suman Samilita Dash, Arundhati Sasmal, Arvind Nath Singh, Sujan Majumder, Hiranmoy Das, Tribikram Samal, Deepa Khulbe, Nahida Afreen, Rajesh Kumar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Eco-friendly control of zucchini leaf blight disease in the greenhouse
Leaf blight is one of the diseases prevalent in zucchini fields in Iraq. This study investigated the etiological agent of zucchini leaf blight in agricultural fields across the Erbil, Diyala and Salah Al-Din governorates of Iraq. The fungus Alternaria cucumerina was found to be the predominant cause, with a percentage of appearance reaching 70.7 % in the samples and a frequency rate of 55 %. The Eac-12 strain showed the highest virulence among the 44 fungal isolates, with disease severity reaching 80.5 % under greenhouse conditions. Copper sulphate and neem oil showed 100 % efficacy in inhibiting pathogenic fungal growth in vitro, followed by plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGB), Azotobacter vinelandii and Azospirillum brasilense. In the greenhouse, the dual inoculum treatment of A. brasilense and A. vinelandii isolates significantly reduced disease incidence and severity. The quadruple combination treatment (copper sulphate, neem oil, A. brasilense and A. vinelandii) achieved the highest disease control rate, with disease incidence and severity recorded at 9 % and 4.3 % respectively. This study demonstrated that the rhizobacterial isolates of A. brasilense and A. vinelandii induced disease resistance in zucchini plants through elevated peroxidase levels, as well as the effectiveness of neem oil and copper sulphate in controlling the pathogenic fungus A. cucumerina.
Copyright (c) 2026 Safaa N Hussein https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Pharmacological evaluation of Dactylorhiza Hatagirea against cyclophosphamide-induced reproductive toxicity in male wistar rats
D. hatagirea (DH) is a species belonging to the Orchidaceae family predominantly found in higher altitude regions such as the Himalayas,, which is reported to possess several biological properties such as anti-oxidant, anti-viral and anti-inflammatory potential. Cyclophosphamide (CP) is a commonly used chemotherapeutic drug that is reported to cause severe reproductive toxicity due to oxidative stress induction. The current study aims at evaluating the effect of DH root extract on mitigating reproductive toxicity induced via CP administration using male wistar rats owing to its previously reported antioxidant potential. Briefly, sequential extraction of DH root was performed using petroleum ether, chloroform and ethanol, followed by its phytochemical evaluation. Biochemical evaluation of the ethanolic DH extract showed optimum antioxidant potential compared to other extracts. Further, in vivo evaluation of the effect of DH extract on CP-induced reproductive toxicity was conducted using varying dosages of 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg for 4 weeks and 8 weeks time periods. Our results indicate the efficacy of DH extract by the restoration of tissue in CP-induced damage post 8 weeks of administration with 200 mg/kg DH treatment. Moreover, an elevated level of testosterone with respect to vehicle control in 4 and 8 weeks of 200 mg/kg DH treatment was also observed, which suggests the ability of DH root extract to elevate reproductive capacity in animals. An increase of 163.37 % and 116.25 % w.r.t. control was observed for testosterone and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) was obtained. An up-regulation of antioxidant enzyme catalase (CAT) and down-regulation of malondialdehyde (MDA) levels suggest the possible mode of action of DH extract towards mitigating the toxic effects of CP administration in the test groups. Thus, our study proposes DH root extract as a potential therapeutic agent to mitigate CP-induced reproductive damage.
Copyright (c) 2025 G Raju, Senthil Kumar B, Ranjith Sreedharan, Deepti Shastri https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Comparative study of bio-stimulants for improving the vase life of chrysanthemum cut flowers
Quality and longer vase life are the most important factors in cut flowers, while chemicals are the reliable ones for enhancing both. To prevent chemical usage, the study was undertaken to evaluate biostimulants for enhancing the vase life of cut flowers. Eleven different treatment combinations of bio-stimulants were used in this experiment to study their effect in enhancing the vase life of chrysanthemum, where extracts of aloe vera, Ocimum gratissimum leaves, lemon juice, Mentha piperita leaves and Moringa olerifera leaves were used at 2 % and 4 % concentration along with 2 % sucrose. The experiment was laid out in a completely randomized design replicated thrice and in each treatment, 10 flowers were used. Chrysanthemum var. Snowball was used in this experiment. Lemon juice at 4 % + Sucrose 2 % (B7) recorded the maximum vase life (14.94, 15.15 and 15.05 days was observed in B7 in Y1, Y2 and pooled respectively), the best antimicrobial activity by recording the minimum count of microbial colonies (43.33 × 104, 56.67 × 104 and 50.00 × 104 CFU/mL in B7 in Y1, Y2 and pooled respectively), maximum total vase solution uptake (15.76 and 15.53 g in B7 in Y1 and pooled respectively) of chrysanthemum var. Snowball during the post-harvest period. A correlation study demonstrated that maintaining an acidic vase solution helped in suppressing microbial growth and this combined effect enhanced a longer vase life. From the study, it could be recommended that lemon juice at 4 % + sucrose 2 % effectively enhanced the post-harvest life of chrysanthemum.
Copyright (c) 2025 Dipayan Sarkar; Prabhas Sidhya; Rupam Sarkar; Riya Chakraborty; Indrajit Sarkar ; Ranjit Chatterjee, Surajit Khalko, Sankalpa Ojha ; Rajiv Kumar; Rajendra P Maurya https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Characterization and detoxification of foot patch by gelatin - agar- based phase hydrogel
Hydrogels made of gelatin and agar have attracted considerable interest for a multitude of pharmaceutical and biomedical applications due to their biodegradability, biocompatibility and controlled release of bioactive materials. These biopolymers include gelatin, a protein derived from collagen and agar, a polysaccharide obtained from red algae; they are used synergistically to manufacture hydrogels with improved mechanical and swelling properties. Investigation of the properties of these hydrogels is essential for describing their structure and function. Infrared Spectroscopy, particularly Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), is commonly used to detect functional groups in the hydrogel matrix. Secondary electron imaging by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) is used in determining the topographical images of the hydrogels. The thermal stability of the hydrogels is determined by conducting Thermo Gravimetric Analysis (TGA). Ultraviolet-Visible (UV-Vis) Spectroscopy is used to determine the extent of L-ascorbic acid immobilization in the hydrogel network. The absorption spectra can identify the drug at those wavelengths and determine the drug loading and release profile in the hydrogel system. This study aimed to develop and characterize gelatin-agar-based hydrogels for potential drug delivery applications, highlighting their structural, thermal and functional properties through comprehensive physicochemical analyses.
Copyright (c) 2026 Sonam Ahuja, Vijay Jagdish Upadhye, Malek Moinhusain Inayat Koderbhai, Patel Jahnvi Samirbhai, Bariya Jaydeepkumar Ramsingbhai, Sangani Yash Nimeshbhai, Srushtirajsinh Rana, Hardikkumar Satishbhai Chauhan, Nikhilkumar Dipakbhai Padhiyar, Patel Janvi Dilipbhai https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Evaluation of durable host resistance to turcicum leaf blight in maize across two-season field trials
Maize (Zea mays L.) is a key global cereal crop, but its productivity is often constrained by turcicum leaf blight (TLB), caused by Exserohilum turcicum. To identify sources of genetic resistance, 88 maize inbred lines were evaluated under artificial epiphytotic conditions during Kharif 2024 and 2025 at ZARS, V.C. Farm, Mandya. Inoculum was mass-multiplied on sorghum grains and applied twice (30 and 40 days after sowing), followed by a light water spray to ensure effective infection. Disease severity was recorded using a 1-9 modified disease rating scale and inbred lines were categorised based on per cent disease index (PDI), lesion length and days to symptom appearance. Nine inbreds (CML 11, CML 34, CML 50, CML 59, CML 93, CML 94, CML 173, CML 191 and the resistant check SKV-50) consistently exhibited resistant reactions, showing low PDI (2.94-27.05 %) and delayed symptom onset (12-17.5 days). Sixty-two inbreds were moderately resistant (PDI 31-50 %), while sixteen were moderately susceptible (PDI 51-70 %). In contrast, CML 166, CML 176 and the susceptible check CM-202 were highly susceptible, exhibiting PDI ≥ 70 %, rapid symptom appearance (4.5-6 days) and extensive lesion expansion (>30 cm²). Although season-to-season variations in disease pressure were recorded, inbred rankings remained stable. The resistant lines identified provide valuable genetic resources for breeding stable TLB resistance, while the susceptible lines offer reliable checks for understanding host-pathogen interactions.
Copyright (c) 2025 Akash Bevanur, Mallikarjuna N, Manjunath B, Sunil C M, Keshavareddy G, Gayathri B, Lohithaswa H C, Nagesha N, P Mahadevu, C R Jahir Basha, Bharath M https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
In silico and in vitro study of insecticidal effect of oil extracted from hemp seeds against Tribolium castaneum (Herbst)
The protection of stored products in Morocco still relies heavily on synthetic insecticides, posing risks to human health and the environment and contributing to the emergence of resistance to these chemicals. This study explored the insecticidal potential of vegetable oils extracted from the seeds of three Cannabis sativa L. varieties (Beldia (Bld), Kherdala (Krd) and Critical (Crt) against Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) , a major pest of stored grains. The chemical composition of the oils was characterised using FTIR and GC-MS, revealing a predominance of fatty acids, particularly linoleic acid (38.97-50.11 %) and oleic acid (10.82–27.26 %). Biological tests showed significant insecticidal activity by contact, with cumulative mortality dependent on dose and exposure time. The Krd variety exhibited the highest toxicity (LD50 = 3.75 mL kg-1), followed by Bld (5.61 mL kg-1) and Crt (7.39 mL kg-1). Furthermore, oils from the Bld and Crt varieties demonstrated strong repellent properties, reaching 91.67 % and 68 %, respectively, at 0.63 µL/cm², while Krd showed weak repellency. Molecular docking analyses suggest that certain major fatty acids, particularly linoleic and oleic acids, interact strongly with acetylcholinesterase, a classic target enzyme for insecticides, reinforcing the hypothesis of their active role in the observed insecticidal effects. These results highlight the potential of C. sativa seed oils as effective and safe bioinsecticides, offering a sustainable alternative to chemical insecticides for the post-harvest protection of cereals in Morocco.
Copyright (c) 2026 Rachid El Baghazaoui, Saadia Belmalha, Abdellatif Boutagayout, Laila Nassiri, Salma El Alami, Rafik El Mernissi, Kamal El Oihabi, Imad Kotba, El Houssine Bouiamrine https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Bioprospecting and characterisation of cellulase producing endophytic fungus, Fusarium annulatum from Caryota urens
Cellulases are a complex system of three enzymes, including endoglucanases, exoglucanases and β-glucosidases, that work together in synergic fashion to degrade lignocellulosic biomass into simple sugars. Despite their enormous applications, they imply high production costs, which represent a significant bottleneck limiting the industrial utilisation. This study therefore investigated the purification and characterisation of cellulase producing endophytic fungal strain, Fusarium annulatum, isolated from Caryota urens (Jaggery palm), identified by morphological characteristics and ITS sequencing. Crude cellulase enzyme was obtained from F. annulatum solid-state fermentation and partial purification of the enzyme was achieved through ammonium sulphate precipitation and dialysis. The partially purified enzyme sample exhibited significant activities of endoglucanase (1.2358 ± 0.0055 IU/mL), β-glucosidase (0.708 0.017 IU/mL) and cellobiohydrolase (0.244 ± 0.019 IU/mL). The filter paper assay of the partially purified enzyme demonstrated significant cellulase activity of 0.7406 ± 0.0258 IU/mL. The optimal pH and temperature of the partially purified enzyme were determined to be 6.0 and 50.0 °C, respectively. These results demonstrate the cellulase producing capacity of F. annulatum, anticipating its industrial production for various purposes, such as biomass conversion and biofuel production. This is one of the first reports of cellulase activity by F. annulatum.
Copyright (c) 2026 Deepu Joy , Suma Sarojini https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Comparative analysis of root system architecture and sulfur acquisition among chickpea cultivars under contrasting sulfur nutrition in hydroponic cultures
Sulfur (S) is an essential element for plant growth, development and defense against biotic and abiotic stresses. Sulfate assimilation in plants is demand-driven and low soil S severely impairs growth and reduces seed protein quality. Like many legumes, chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) seeds are characterized by suboptimal levels of cysteine and methionine. Therefore, it is imperative to screen the cultivars for maximum sulfate assimilation and utilization efficiency. In the present study, we screened a total of sixteen chickpea cultivars based on root system architecture (RSA) under contrasting S regimes-S-starvation and S-sufficient conditions-highlighting the potential correlations between altered root plasticity, corresponding dry mass and S allocation within plants at the whole-plant level. The root morphological traits were measured and the values of RSA traits for Desi cultivars (PUSA256, PUSA547, PUSA5028 and PUSA362) and Kabuli cultivars (PUSA1003 and PUSA1053) were significantly higher even under S-starvation conditions, maximizing the concurrent increase in sulfur acquisition, indicating their sulfur efficiency. However, the fold decrease of these traits, dry mass and sulfur content at S-starvation was higher for Kabuli cultivars, coinciding with plant chlorosis, indicating their susceptibility to S-starvation stress. Additionally, cultivars such as PUSA3022, KAK2, PUSA5023, BGD112 and BGD72 displayed drastic declines in root traits and sulfur content under S-starvation, highlighting their limited capacity to adapt via root plasticity, particularly in lateral root development. These findings emphasize the importance of root morphogenetic traits in sulfur efficiency and provide a basis for breeding chickpea cultivars with improved nutrient use efficiency.
Copyright (c) 2026 Nagesh C R, Dineshkumar R, Durgeshwari Prabhakar Gadpayale, Satish M, Prasanna Kumari Ch, Minakshi Dutta, Navita Bansal, Suneha Goswami, Ranjeet Ranjan Kumar, Rakesh Pandey, Chellapilla Bharadwaj, Ramaprashat G, Vinutha T https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Population diversity and pathogenicity of Ralstonia solanacearum causing bacterial wilt of tomato in Odisha
Bacterial wilt, caused by Ralstonia solanacearum, is one of the most destructive diseases limiting tomato production in tropical and subtropical regions. To understand the pathogen’s biology in Odisha, twenty isolates were collected from wilt-affected tomato fields and characterized for incidence, morphology, biochemical properties, metabolic traits, pathogenic variability and race/biovar grouping. Wilt incidence ranged from 13.33 % to 73.33 %. The most virulent isolates-ORS1, ORS3 and ORS20 (where the ORS series denotes isolates of Ralstonia solanacearum collected from wilt-affected tomato plants across Odisha) caused severe wilt and showed high bacterial populations, whereas isolates such as ORS10 and ORS19 were weakly pathogenic. On tetrazolium chloride (TZC) medium, most isolates formed fluidal, white-margined, red-centred colonies, though variations such as irregular or slimy types were observed. Growth was vigorous on TZC agar, moderate on nutrient agar and poor on King’s B agar. Biochemical and physiological characterization confirmed the identity of all isolates as Ralstonia solanacearum. The isolates exhibited generally conserved metabolic behaviour with limited variability in certain carbohydrate and amino acid utilization patterns, indicating a genetically uniform yet adaptable population across Odisha. All isolates were classified as Biovar III and Race I, infecting tomato, chilli and brinjal but not banana or ginger. These results confirm that tomato wilt in Odisha is dominated by a virulent Biovar III, Race I population with intraspecific variability, underscoring the need for integrated management and resistance breeding against aggressive local isolates.
Copyright (c) 2025 Samikshya Sankalini Pradhan, Subrata Sarkar, Biswajit Jena, Anita Mohanty, Deepali Mohapatra, Saswati Sibani Panda, Lipikant Sahoo, Debashis Dash https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
In silico ADMET profiling and PTP1B molecular docking of phytochemicals from the desert medicinal plant Pergularia tomentosa L.
This study presents an in silico profiling of phytochemical compounds derived from Pergularia tomentosa L. against the protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B), a key regulator in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). With the aid of computational assessment, the phytochemicals were examined for their drug-likeness, absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion and toxicity (ADMET) properties and molecular interactions with the target protein PTP1B. A total of 40 phytochemical compounds derived from P. tomentosa were evaluated using ADMET tools and molecular docking against PTP1B, a central enzyme involved in the negative regulation of insulin signalling and thus a critical target in T2DM. Molecular docking analysis identified six top phytochemical compounds from P. tomentosa with binding affinities ranging from -6.8 to -7.9 kcal/mol relative to the reference inhibitor and exhibiting satisfactory ADMET profiles with no major toxicity. These findings suggest that phytochemicals from P. tomentosa possess promising antidiabetic potential by potentially inhibiting PTP1B, as indicated by in silico studies.
Copyright (c) 2026 Sabiha Naaz, Arminder Kaur, Mohd Saeed https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Integrated nutrient management as a strategy for higher production of pearl millet and wheat under saline water irrigation on sandy loam soils of Haryana
The poor quality irrigation water is a major cause of the development of soil salinity and reduced agricultural production in the arid and semiarid areas. Although pearl millet and wheat are moderately salinity-tolerant crops, their productivity is affected by salinity to a large extent. A field experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of integrated nutrient management on yield and yield attributes of pearl millet and wheat under saline water irrigation during 2022-23 and 2023-24. The experiment consisted of twelve treatments, viz. T1 [(75 % recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF)], T2 (100 % RDF), T3 [75 % RDF + ST-3 (Azotobacter chroococcum)], T4 (100 % RDF + ST-3), T5 [75 % RDF + 2.5 t ha-1 biogas slurry (BGS) + ST-3], T6 (100 % RDF + 2.5 t ha-1 BGS + ST-3), T7 [75 % RDF + 2.5 t ha-1 vermicompost (VC) + ST-3], T8 (100 % RDF + 2.5 t ha-1 VC + ST-3), T9 [75 % RDF + 10 t ha-1 farm yard manure (FYM) + biomix], T10 (100 % RDF + 10 t ha-1 FYM + biomix), T11 (75 % RDF + 2.5 t ha-1 VC + biomix) and T12 (100 % RDF + 2.5 t ha-1 VC + biomix). Results revealed that the number of effective tillers per meter row length, earhead/spike length and the plant height increased with integrated nutrient management and maximum values of these parameters were observed under T10. However, these parameters decreased under the sole application of inorganic fertilisers under saline water irrigation in both pearl millet and wheat crops. The highest grain and stover yield, viz. 27.43 and 78.19 q ha-1 of pearl millet; grain and straw yield of wheat, viz. 38.66 and 55.18 q ha-1 was also reported under treatment T10.
Copyright (c) 2026 Asha Verma, Parmod Kumar Yadav, Rajpaul Yadav, Ankush Kamboj, Khatera Qane, Charan Singh, Ram Prakash https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Enhancing 'Barhee' date palm productivity and fruit characteristics using fruit thinning and exogenous treatment with CPPU
The current study was conducted to examine the effects of thinning strands at levels; To (no strands shortening), T1 (shortening the strand length by 10 cm from the terminal tip) and T2 (shortening the strand length by 20 cm from the terminal tip). The thinning process was carried out four weeks after pollination, along with CPPU(N-(2-Chloro-4-pyridyl)-N'-phenyl urea) spraying at three concentrations C0 (spraying clusters with distilled water only ), C1 (spraying clusters with CPPU at 5 mg L-1) and C2 (spraying clusters with CPPU at 10 mg L-1). Treatments were applied during Hababoukand the Kamri stages prior the fruit colour changed, on 27 Barhee palm trees with (22 years old as uniform in vegetative growth as possible) during the 2023-2024 season in a private grove located in Al-Tarmia province, 55 km north of Baghdad. The results showed that thinning process especially by T2 improved fruit quality, reduced fruits drop, increased bunch weight and yield per palm, accelerated fruit ripening, increased the (TSS), decreased acidity and enhanced the ripening index compared to control, Conversely spraying with CPPU, especially C2 improved fruit qualities, minimizing fruit drop, increased the weight of the bunch, yield per palm, reduced fruit ripening, TSS, increased acidity consequently decreased ripening index. The combined treatment T2C2 produced the most significant improvement in productivity and fruit characteristics.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mohammed Jabbar Hussein, Thamer H R Al-Falahy https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Fertilizer-driven heavy metal contamination in tomato soils: Insights from multivariate source apportionment
Excessive use of chemical fertilisers has increased the accumulation of heavy metals in agricultural soils, posing serious threats to soil health and food security. However, multi-index ecological risk assessments and depth-wise contamination profiles of soils under intensively fertilised tomato systems in India remain poorly characterized. This study quantified the concentrations of Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, Cd, Cr, Pb and As, along with associated physicochemical and biological properties, in one hundred soil samples collected from intensively cultivated tomato fields in Chintamani, Karnataka, at both surface (0-20 cm) and subsurface (20-40 cm) depths. Pollution levels were assessed using the geo-accumulation index (Igeo), enrichment factor (EF), pollution index (PI) and ecological risk index (Ei and RI), owing to their ability to account for geogenic variability, anthropogenic inputs and ecological hazards. Potential sources of metals were identified using multivariate statistical methods. Most soil attributes and metal concentrations showed highly significant depth-wise differences (p < 0.001), indicating pronounced anthropogenic enrichment in surface soils. Surface soils exhibited elevated concentrations of Cd (0.66-5.40 mg kg-1), As (9.44-30.80 mg kg-1), Pb (18-39.40 mg kg-1), Mn (525-1870 mg kg-1) and Cu (38.41-83.29 mg kg-1), while Fe, Zn and Cr were below levels of concern. EF and RI identified Cd, As and Pb as priority pollutants, with Cd accounting for more than 60 % of the total ecological risk, despite classification of most soils as "uncontaminated" by Igeo. Subsurface soils had reduced anthropogenic influence, with Cd, Pb, As and Mn remaining the concern. Principal component and cluster analysis distinguished anthropogenic (Cd, As, Pb, Mn and Cu) from geogenic (Fe, Al, Zn and Cr) sources. Depth-specific management, region-specific background values and future work on metal speciation, bioavailability testing and isotopic source tracing are critical for improving ecological risk assessments and safeguarding soil sustainability and food safety in the study area.
Copyright (c) 2026 Monali Raut, Krishna Murthy Rangaiah, Doddabelavangala Vedamurthy Naveen, Veeranagappa Parameshwarappa, Pushpa Krishna https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Heat tolerance assessment and molecular diversity analysis of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) genotypes using Heat Susceptibility Index (HSI) and SSR/STS markers
This study was conducted during the Rabi season of 2020-21, aimed to assess the heat susceptibility and genetic diversity of 25 wheat genotypes under four distinct environmental conditions: timely sown conditions in LPU, Jalandhar, Punjab (E1) and ICAR-IIWBR, Karnal, Haryana (E2), as well as late sown conditions at both experimental sites i.e. E3 and E4 respectively. These genotypes, sourced from ICAR-IIWBR, Karnal, Haryana, were cultivated following an Alpha Lattice Design with two replications. The evaluation of heat susceptibility using heat susceptibility index (HSI) categorized the genotypes into two groups: tolerant and susceptible. Heat stress responses varied among genotypes and locations. At Jalandhar (L-1), DBW187, HD3298, HI1612, DBW303, PBW644, NIAW3170, HD3086, HD3118 and DBW88 showed tolerance, whereas DBW222, WB-2, DBW173, DBW90, PBW771, HD3043, HI1605 and HD3249 were susceptible. In contrast, DBW222, HD3086, DBW173, WB-2, DBW90, HI1605, DBW88, PBW771, HD3043, NIAW3170 and HD3249 were tolerant at Karnal (L-2), whereas DBW303, DBW187, HD3298, PBW644, HD3118 and HI1612 were susceptible. Across both locations, HD2967, WH1142, HD3171 and WH1270 consistently exhibited heat tolerance, while DBW71, K1317, WH1105 and HI1628 remained susceptible. Furthermore, an analysis of genetic diversity employing STS and SSR markers revealed a similarity range from 0.61 to 0.94, with an average similarity coefficient of 0.77. Remarkably, genotype pairs such as DBW187 and WH1270, HD3086 and WH1142, DBW173 and HD3298, as well as DBW90 and WH1105, exhibited the highest similarity index of 0.94. The construction of a dendrogram using NTSYS-pc software delineated four major clusters, each of which was further subdivided. This research underscores the significance of genetic diversity in plant breeding, as it provides breeders with a rich pool of genetic resources to develop improved varieties endowed with various stress-resistant traits.
Copyright (c) 2026 Rajitha Jayakumar Nair, Rajneesh Kumar, Manoj Kumar Pandey, Rajesh Aggarwal, C N Mishra, Upama Mishra https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Green synthesis and characterization of Fe2O3 and MgO nanoparticles
Despite growing interest in metal oxide nanomaterials, there remains a notable lack of systematically engineered iron oxide (Fe2O3) and magnesium oxide (MgO) nanoparticles with well-defined structural and surface properties tailored for safe, multifunctional use in agriculture and environmental remediation. This study comprehensively evaluates the synthesis and characterization of Fe2O3 and MgO nanoparticles, revealing their successful formation with controlled crystallinity, morphology and surface functional groups. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed the nanocrystalline structures and high purity of both nanoparticles. Magnesium oxide showed sharp, well-defined peaks indexed to the cubic phase (JCPDS card no. 45-0946 with crystallite sizes 18-25 nm) using the Scherrer equation. The Fe2O3 nanoparticles displayed sharp phase-specific peaks with crystallite sizes ranging from 20 to 35 nm, demonstrating their high purity and crystallinity. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy identified characteristic functional groups, including surface hydroxyls and metal-oxygen stretching vibrations. Mg-O (~411 cm-1) and Fe-O bands confirmed reactive nanostructures. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images revealed predominantly hexagonal MgO nanoparticles sized 20-40 nm with sharp boundaries indicating low defects, while Fe2O3 nanoparticles exhibited near-spherical to polyhedral morphologies ranging from 23 to 64 nm, with moderate agglomeration attributed to magnetic interactions. These well-controlled nanostructures, with high surface area and reactivity, are promising candidates for agricultural and environmental applications, nanofertilizers, plant virus management, catalysis and remediation.
Copyright (c) 2026 R Rajeshkumar, Pon Sathya Moorthy, M Raveendran, G Karthikeyan, V Gomathi, M Djanaguiraman, K Abinaya https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Physiological response of tomato to trifloxystrobin and tebuconazole: Implications for photosynthetic efficiency
A field experiment was conducted to study the impact of Nativo (trifloxystrobin combined with tebuconazole) on photosynthetic efficiency involved in improving the productivity of tomato. The different concentrations of fungicide, Nativo, were applied at 35-40 days after treatment (DAT) and 55-60 DAT in tomato. Leaf area was significantly reduced by the application of Nativo 75WG (tebuconazole 50 % + trifloxystrobin 25 % WG) at 400 g ha-1 in tomato, irrespective of the seasons, thereby reducing the growth analytical parameters such as leaf area index and leaf area duration. Among the treatments, Nativo 75WG at 400 g ha-1 in tomato recorded a higher photosynthetic rate, decreased stomatal conductance and transpiration rate. The rate of photosynthesis, chlorophyll index, soluble protein and sugar accumulation were augmented by the treatment Nativo 75WG at 400 g ha-1 in tomato, thereby producing maximum dry matter and ultimately, higher yield. All the yield contributing parameters were effectively increased by the foliar spray of trifloxystrobin coupled with tebuconazole in tomato and maximum yield was noticed in Nativo 75WG at 400 g ha-1 in tomato. It was concluded that foliar spray of Nativo 75WG at 400 g ha-1 during 35-40 DAT and 55-60 DAT in tomato was found to be optimum in increasing the yield to 18 % over control with increased photosynthetic efficiency, nutrient uptake and dry matter accumulation.
Copyright (c) 2025 Nagajothi Rajasekaran, V Suganya, P Jeyakumar, S Vincent, Jidhu Vaishnavi Sivaprakasam https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Evaluation of salt tolerance in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) seedlings using the multitrait genotype-ideotype distance index (MGIDI)
Cotton is a vital agricultural crop and a primary source of natural fibres, linters and oil. However, soil salinity poses a major abiotic threat to crop productivity worldwide, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions. Although cotton is considered moderately salt-tolerant, its early growth stages are highly sensitive to stress. This study evaluated the morphological response of 28 cotton cultivars to controlled salt stress conditions. Results revealed a clear, dose-dependent reduction in seedling growth under increasing salinity levels. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) confirmed a significant cultivar × treatment interaction (PC × PT), highlighting substantial genetic variability and contrasting responses of cultivars to salinity. Pearson correlation analysis indicated stronger relationships between linear growth traits and biomass accumulation under saline conditions, suggesting a coordinated adaptive modulation of growth mechanisms. Principal component analysis (PCA) confirmed the dominant effect of salinity on phenotypic variability and distinguished distinct adaptive growth strategies among cultivars. The multitrait genotype-ideotype distance index (MGIDI) effectively identified the cultivars Bukhoro-14 (C5), C-4727 (C7), Kelajak (C14) and Nasaf (C19) as genotypes with enhanced salt tolerance at specific levels of induced salt stress. These genotypes represent valuable genetic resources for breeding programs aimed at developing salt-tolerant cotton cultivars suited to arid environments.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ilkhom B Salakhutdinov, Dmitriy A Mirzabaev, Venera S Kamburova, Farkhod S Radjapov, Dilshod E Usmanov, Dmitriy K Bazarov, Azadakhan S Imamkhodjaeva, Nodira R Rakhmatova, Khurshida A Ubaydullaeva, Shukhrat E Shermatov, Shukhrat O Kushakov, Sharofiddin S Abdukarimov, Botirjon M Sobirov, Avazkhon A Azimov, Abdusalom Kh Makamov, Vyacheslav V Uzbekov, Abduvakhid A Bolkiev, Zebo Z Yuldashova, Rano M Artikova, Barno A Abdullaeva, Muyassar R Zakirova, Bakhtiyor K Rakhmanov, Zabardast T Buriev https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Response of gamma rays on flower quality, vase life and morphological changes in gladiolus
The study investigated the response of gamma rays on flower quality, vase life and morphological changes in gladiolus. Five cultivars American Beauty, Dull Queen, Saffron, Candyman and Summer Sunshine were exposed to varying gamma ray doses (0, 15, 25, 35, 45 and 55 Gy) using a ^60Co source in a factorial randomized block design. The results revealed a dose-dependent response, where low to moderate doses (15–35 Gy) enhanced key parameters such as spike length, rachis length, blooming period, vase life and water uptake, whereas higher doses (≥45 Gy) induced physiological inhibition and morphological abnormalities. The 15 Gy dose produced the longest (≈73.95 cm), an extended blooming period and maximum vase life, whereas 55 Gy led to stunted spikes, reduced longevity and increased floral deformities. Varietal variation was evident, with Candyman and Saffron showing superior tolerance and responsiveness to irradiation. Several stable floral mutants were also isolated, including pink and light-pink variants of Candyman and yellowish-green and pale-yellow mutants of Summer Sunshine, confirming the mutagenic potential of gamma rays generating novel ornamental types. Taken together, the findings demonstrate that controlled gamma irradiation, particularly at 15-35 Gy, is an effective tool for inducing useful variability and enhancing the aesthetic and commercial value of gladiolus cultivars.
Copyright (c) 2025 Eerati Sathyanarayana, Kurakula Divya, B Pavan Kumar Naik, Anand Kumar, Asit Prasad Dash, Ayyarappan Bharathi, Samapika Dalai, Pragnyashree Mishra, Biswajit Lenka, Luna Barooah https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Comparative assessment of oxalic acid levels in fresh, dried and fermented forms of water spinach (Ipomoea aquatica Forsk.)
The current study aimed to comparatively evaluate oxalic acid levels in fresh, dried and fermented forms of water spinach (Ipomoea aquatica Forsk.) (var. Kashi Manu). The field trial was conducted at the Experimental Farm of ICAR-IIVR, Varanasi, India, July, 2024 and estimation of oxalic acid was carried out at the Biochemical Laboratory of same research institute. The oxalic acid content was assessed by titrimetric analysis using standardized potassium permanganate (KMnO₄) solution. The results showed significant differences among treatments (p ≤ 0.01). Fresh samples showed the highest oxalic acid concentration (250.24 ± 3.08 g/100 g) whereas, the lowest value was observed in the fermented sample prepared with salt water (FSW; 22.17 ± 0.68 mg/100 g). Drying reduced oxalic acid levels to 107.66 ± 4.86 mg/100 g whereas, fermentation distinctly reduced the concentration in all treatments with reductions of 83-91 % compared to fresh samples. The decline in oxalic acid concentration during fermentation is attributed to enzymatic degradation and microbial decarboxylation processes. This result revealed that traditional fermentation particularly salt water fermentation, serves as an effective approach for reducing anti-nutritional oxalic acid in water spinach, thereby enhancing its nutritional safety and value for human consumption.
Copyright (c) 2026 Kanchhi Maya Waiba, Rakesh K Dubey , Rajeev Kumar, Anjana Sisodia, N Rai, Rajesh Kumar, Kalyan Barman, A K Singh https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Effect of seed treatment with salicylic acid, humic acid and zinc on the growth rate of broad bean seedlings (Vicia faba L.)
Seed germination and early seedling growth are critical stages that determine successful crop establishment and productivity in grain legumes. However, limited information is available regarding the comparative physiological effects of individual seed treatments with salicylic acid (SA), humic acid (HA) and zinc (Zn) on faba bean seedlings. This study aimed to evaluate the physiological effects of individual seed treatments with SA, HA and Zn on the germination performance and growth of faba bean (Barcino cultivar) seedlings. Seeds were sterilized and soaked in different concentrations of each treatment (SA at 0, 50, 150, 200 mg/L; HA at 0, 100, 200, 300 mg/L; Zn at 0, 200, 300, 400 mg/L). Germination and seedling vigour were assessed using standard indices. The results showed significant superiority of all treatments compared to the control. Salicylic acid at 150 mg/L was the most effective treatment, recording the highest values for the final germination percentage (98.21 %), the lowest average germination time (3.4 days) and the highest germination index (37.21), in addition to its superiority in all vegetative growth traits and vitality indicators. Humic acid followed in performance at 300 mg/L, followed by Zn at 300 mg/L. This study concludes that seed pre-treatment with 150 mg/L SA is a promising approach enhancing germination and early seedling growth in faba bean. The findings highlight the importance of determining the optimal concentration for each biostimulant to avoid potential inhibitory effects at higher doses.
Copyright (c) 2026 Azhar Taher Sleibi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Valorizing treated sludge for sustainable growing media to improve rooting and growth of Co. 1- Gundumalli (Jasminum sambac (L.) Aiton) stem cuttings
The suitability of treated sewage sludge for vegetative propagation of ornamental crops has received little rigorous evaluation. The present study evaluated the physicochemical characteristics of treated sludge (TS) and its potential as a component of growing media for the propagation of Jasminum sambac (L.) Aiton through stem cuttings. Different combinations of organic and inorganic substrates were prepared and compared with TS to assess their effects on rooting and growth of J. sambac semi hardwood stem cuttings. The best results for all growth parameters including earlier sprouting (12.46 days), highest rooting % (86.66 %), number of roots (9.12), root length (12.74 cm), shoot length (21.50 cm) and vigour index (2967.24) were recorded in the combination of vermicompost (VC) + cocopeat (CP) + TS in a 2:1:1 ratio. The highest root fresh weight (11.34 g) and root dry weight (2.32 g) was also detected in this medium, suggesting an optimal nutrient and moisture balance. Based on correlation analysis, nitrogen and phosphorus had strong positive relationship, whereas potassium had weaker but positive relationship with all the physical parameters recorded. This study shows TS as a sustainable and efficient rooting media component when combined with VC and CP, enhancing nutrient utilization, rooting efficiency and seedling vigour in J. sambac cuttings.
Copyright (c) 2026 Amrin Banu A, R Swarnapriya, M Ganga, S Suresh, E Parameswari, P Meenakshi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Dry ageing: A physiologically realistic alternative to accelerated ageing for phenotyping seed longevity in soybean
Seed longevity is a vital trait that influences germplasm storability and seed quality maintenance. The accelerated ageing test (AAT) is often used to measure longevity, but its high-temperature and humidity conditions do not truly represent natural seed ageing. This study aimed to develop a dry ageing (DA) method as an alternative to the AAT for phenotyping soybean (Glycine max L.) seed longevity. Fifteen soybean genotypes differing in seed coat colour were evaluated under controlled dry conditions at moderate temperature and humidity (41 ± 0.3 °C and 50 % relative humidity (RH)). Germination and vigour traits, including total germination (TG %), normal seedlings (NSL %), shoot length (SL), root length (RL) and seed vigour index (SVI-I) were recorded to compare AAT and DA. Significant variations were observed among genotypes, ageing periods and their interactions. While AAT caused rapid deterioration (TG % from 97.5 to 0.3 % in 10 days), DA showed a slower and more natural decline (TG % from 97.8 to 57.7 % in 214 days). Genotypes TGX 855-32E and B 252 showed less than 30 % reduction in most of the traits. Correlation analysis revealed that DA maintained and strengthened trait relationships over time, unlike AAT, which disrupted them. Dry ageing also separated tolerant and sensitive genotypes more clearly, capturing the natural variation in seed longevity that AAT often compresses or masks. Overall, the DA method provides a simple, less stressful and more realistic alternative to accelerated ageing for screening soybean genotypes for seed longevity under conditions that better represent natural ageing.
Copyright (c) 2026 A Akash, M B Ratnaparkhe, C T M Prasad, B K Naik, M K Kuchlan, H R Archana, S Bhattacharjee, S K Lal, D Vijay, Arun Kumar M B https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Quality modulation of essential oils in lemongrass and citronella through Melia dubia Cav.-Cymbopogon agroforestry
Although quantitative data regarding Melia dubia Cav.-Cymbopogon interactions remains limited, silvi-aromatic agroforestry systems are progressively recognized for their ability to enhance land-use efficiency, agricultural income and sustainability by modifying microclimates and regulating secondary metabolism in aromatic crops. This research employed a replicated split-plot design with five replications over three harvests from 2024 to 2025 to evaluate the performance of two M. dubia clones (MTP-1 and MTP-2) intercropped with lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) and citronella (Cymbopogon nardus) at the University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, Bengaluru, India (13°04′ N; 77°35′ E). We assessed growth parameters, forage output, oil yield and oil content. We employed GC-MS to analyse the composition of the essential oil, utilizing spectral libraries and authentic standards for chemical identification. MTP-1 consistently surpassed MTP-2 in vegetative growth and biomass production during all harvests. At the third harvest, plants cultivated with MTP-1 measured 138.65 cm in height and produced 135.65 tillers. Plants cultivated with MTP-2 attained a height of only 88.15 cm and produced 67.75 tillers. The MTP-1 system produced greater quantities of fresh and dried herbage and oil (44.37 vs. 29.96 kg ha-1), with the MTP-1 and lemongrass combination yielding the maximum oil output (46.36 kg ha-1). The MTP-2 × citronella combination had a higher oil content (2.12 % compared to 1.76 %), indicating a trade-off between biomass accumulation and oil concentration. In citronella oil, shady conditions decreased citronellal while increasing geranyl acetate. The citral (geranial + neral) concentration in lemongrass oil was increased. Agroforestry systems with M. dubia enhance growth and oil yield while altering the composition of essential oils. This renders them beneficial for both the environment and the economy and they can be utilized to achieve market and quality objectives.
Copyright (c) 2026 Pratiksha Patil, Hanumanthappa D C, Poornima R, Vimala M, Mahadeva Murthy M, Uday K S N https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Influence of organic fertilizer and licorice root on growth, flowering and chemical constitution of Chinese carnation (Dianthus chinensis L.)
The experiment was implemented in the facilities of the Department of Horticulture and Landscape Engineering (greenhouse) at the College of Agriculture, University of Anbar. It aimed to investigate the effect of organic fertilizer and licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) root powder on the vegetative growth, flowering traits and chemical composition of Chinese carnation plants. The first factor consisted of four concentrations of organic fertilizer: 0, 5, 10 and 15 mL L-1, The second factor included three levels of licorice root powder: 0, 3 and 6 g per pot. The experiment was arranged in a factorial arrangement (4 × 3) using a Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. Each experimental unit consisted of three plants. The results Displayed that using organic fertilizer at a level of 15 mL L-1 significantly elevated height of plant, branches number and leaves number, diameter of flower, number of flower, petals content of anthocyanin and leaves content of nitrogen, carbohydrate and chlorophyll. These values can be analyzed as strong proof that organic fertilizer stimulates plant growth and enhances its growth and flower traits. Adding 3 g of licorice root powder to each pot also aided to improved growth of branch and leaves, total leaves area, diameter of flower, number of flower and total chlorophyll, suggesting that this treatment could be an successful supplement to stimulate overall health of plants. These results can be used to advance practical agricultural strategies aimed at rising plant productivity and flower and leaf quality, whether in home gardening or commercial production, by employing organic fertilizer at an adequate rate and supplementing licorice root as an aid to enhance growth and promote the nutritional content of plants.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mahmoud Shaker Ahmed, Mukhalad Hadi Ismail, Ahmad Kamis Abdullah, Ahmed Fatkhan Zabar Al-Dulaimy https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Diversity and nutritional potential of edible dung loving mushrooms from Northeast India, an Indo-Burma mega biodiversity hotspot
The study explores the diversity, edibility and nutritional potential of edible coprophilous (dung loving) mushrooms from the biodiversity rich region of Northeast India. Seven macro-fungal species belonging to Termitomyces, Chlorophyllum, Macrolepiota were collected from herbivore dung and identified through morphological and molecular analysis. Nutritional evaluation revealed high protein (up to 53.43 %), carbohydrates (up to 48.5 %) and fiber (up to 17.6 %) indicating their value as functional foods. Mineral analysis showed that these mushrooms are rich in potassium, phosphorus, calcium, iron, zinc while toxic heavy metals such as lead and cadmium were below detectable limits. LC-QTOF-MS analysis confirmed the absence of major mushroom toxins confirming their edibility and safety. The findings highlight the potential of these coprophilous mushrooms as a sustainable nutritional resource and support their use in local diets and rural livelihoods.
Copyright (c) 2026 Monidip Boro, Anjan Kumar Sarma https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Medicinal plant leaf classification using an optimized multi-feature deep-learning approach
Plants are essential for human beings to survive on this planet earth. Numerous plant species exist out of which medicinal plants play an important role as they are used for a wide range of humanoid ailments. At least 80 % of individuals now use herbal supplements and medications for some part of primary healthcare, a huge increase in use over the previous 3 decades. Therefore, proper detection of medicinal plants is a challenging task. This paper hence proposes a framework that efficiently and effectively classifies medicinal plants. The proposed framework is divided into 2 stages: (i) image pre-processing and (ii) classification network. The former utilizes the Kuwahara filter and also introduces a novel Hybrid Whale Cat Optimization Model (HWCOM). The latter employs a deep-learning-based classification model to classify medicinal plant images. The proposed framework also leverages fused gray-level co-occurrence matrix (GLCM) and principal component analysis (PCA) features to automatically classify medicinal plants by using multi-feature extraction of leaf images. Further, the proposed framework is trained and tested on medicinal plant dataset. The proposed framework can classify 30 different classes of medicinal plant leaves and provides an accuracy of 99.81 % when compared with other state-of-the-art.
Copyright (c) 2026 Astha Sharma, Ashwni Kumar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Synergistic organic-bio-mineral fertilization as a breakthrough strategy to maximize maize productivity in gypsiferous soils
Gypsiferous soils are characterized by low nutrient availability and structural limitations that often restrict crop productivity. Therefore, developing integrated nutrient-management strategies is essential to enhance plant performance under such challenging conditions. This study evaluated the efficiency of integrated fertilization with compost, biofertilizers and diammonium phosphate (DAP) in improving the growth and yield of maize (Zea mays L.) grown in gypsiferous soils under sprinkler irrigation. The field experiment was conducted during the 2024 growing season, using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with 10 treatments (T1–T10) and 3 replications. Results showed that the integrated treatment combining compost, biofertilizers and DAP (T4) produced the tallest plants (163.4 cm), the largest flag leaf area (493.8 cm²) and the earliest flowering (55 days to 50 % male anthesis) compared with the control (128.9 cm, 404.3 cm² and 59.3 days, respectively). Moreover, this treatment recorded the highest yield components: 17.33 rows per cob, 195.5 g grain yield per plant and a total yield of 10.43 t ha-1, whereas the control recorded 14.33 rows per cob, 115.6 g per plant and 6.16 t ha-1. These findings confirm that integrating compost and biofertilizers with DAP represents a sustainable and efficient strategy to improve maize productivity in saline-gypsiferous soils under sprinkler irrigation.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ehab Jabbar Aldabbagh, Naeem A Mutlag, Marwaa S Hameed, Saja K Kudury https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Smart bio-mineral integration to enhance sorghum productivity in gypsiferous soils
This study aimed to evaluate the effects of bacterial biofertilizers (Azotobacter and Bacillus) integrated with phosphate mineral fertilizer (DAP), while keeping nitrogen fertilizer (urea) constant across all treatments, on the growth and yield of sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.) cultivated in gypsiferous soils in Iraq. This study was conducted in 2025 in a gypsiferous soil region of Iraq, where nutrient limitations particularly nitrogen and phosphorus reduce sorghum productivity. The site conditions reflect the broader challenges facing cereal cultivation in degraded soils. Therefore, the experiment provided a realistic platform to assess the effectiveness of integrating biofertilizers with mineral fertilizers in improving crop performance under such conditions. The field experiment was conducted in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with ten treatments and three replications. Measurements included plant height, leaf number, chlorophyll content, days to 50 % flowering, 1000-grain weight, grain number per head, grain yield per plant and grain yield per hectare. Results showed that the treatment combining compost with biofertilizer achieved the highest plant height (295.3 cm), chlorophyll content (57.3 SPAD) and grain yield (5.69 t ha-1). It also recorded superior yield components, including the greatest 1000-grain weight and seed number per head, reflecting a marked improvement in both vegetative vigour and reproductive efficiency. The findings suggest that the integration of mineral fertilizer and bacterial inoculants is an effective strategy to improve sorghum productivity in gypsiferous soils, addressing a research gap given the scarcity of such studies under Iraqi conditions.
Copyright (c) 2026 Naeem A Mutlag, Ehab Jabbar Aldabbagh, Saja K Kudury, Marwaa S Hameed, Jabbar Sh El-Esawi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Study of in vitro propagation and acclimatisation in Polianthes tuberosa cv. Pink Sapphire
Polianthes tuberosa cv. Pink Sapphire is one of the beautiful commercial flower varieties newly imported into Vietnam. However, detailed studies on the micropropagation and acclimatisation of this flower species to the local environment are lacking. To meet the production and commercial demand of this flower variety in Vietnams’ An Giang province, the study was conducted to select optimal media for in vitro propagation and suitable environments for seedling acclimatisation under greenhouse conditions. Five experiments were encompassed in this study, consisting of sterilisation of initial explants, in vitro shoot regeneration from bulb scales, in vitro shoot multiplication, complete plantlet generation and acclimatisation of seedlings in the greenhouse. The results demonstrated that the most effective sterilisation method was using 0.2 % HgCl2 for 15 min and then 10 % Ca(OCl)2 for 10 min. Four-scaling bulbs cultured on MS media containing 2.5 mg/L BAP and 0.5 mg/L NAA were recommended for in vitro shoot regeneration. The best medium for in vitro shoot multiplication was MS medium supplemented with 2 mg/L BAP and 0.5 mg/L NAA. The suitable medium for complete plantlet regeneration was MS medium. To acclimatise Pink Sapphire in the greenhouse, the optimal substrate was a mixture of rice husk ash, coconut coir and sand in equal parts (1:1:1). The findings of this study provide a foundation for the rapid development of the P. tuberosa cv. Pink Sapphire variety in An Giang province of Vietnam.
Copyright (c) 2026 Nguyen Thi My Duyen, Trinh Thi Thu Hong, Diep Nhut Thanh Hang, Bui Phuoc Tam https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
GC-MS profiling and antimicrobial activity of Moringa oleifera leaf and Citrus sinensis peel extracts and their individual and combinational effects
The plant-based antimicrobials have emerged as an alternative source of medicine to synthetic antibiotics due to their cost-effectiveness, cause lesser side effects and have a broad range of activity. The present study deals with the assessment of antibacterial efficiency of ethanolic leaf extracts of Moringa oleifera Lam., as well as ethanolic peel extracts of Citrus sinensis L., against Vibrio harveyi (Gram-negative bacteria) and Bacillus subtilis (Gram-positive bacteria). The M. oleifera and the C. sinensis are widely available, inexpensive and eco-friendly botanical materials with wide range of phytochemical content. The crude extracts were obtained through Soxhlet extraction process with 70 % ethanol. The preliminary qualitative phytochemical analysis showed the presence of alkaloids, tannins, saponins, phenols, flavonoids and terpenoids. Antibacterial activity was assessed by agar well diffusion, broth microdilution (MIC/MBC) and checkerboard synergy testing methods. Findings indicated that the two extracts reduced the growth of bacteria in a dose-dependent manner. Moringa oleifera and Citrus sinensis extracts exhibited a potent antimicrobial activity against B. subtilis (MIC-3.125 ± 0.11 and 12.50 ± 0.00 mg/mL respectively) and V. harvevi (6.25 ± 0.17 and 3.125 ± 0.05 mg/mL respectively). Against B. subtilis, a synergistic effect was defined (fractional inhibitory concentration index (FICI) = 0.31), whereas against V. harveyi, an indifferent effect was observed (FICI = 1.03). Through gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) analysis we were able to identify some antibacterial compounds in M. oleifera extract such as n-hexadecanoic acid, phytol and α-linolenic acid. Similarly, limonene, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural and phenolic derivatives in C. sinensis. The results support the feasibility of widely used plant resources such as M. oleifera and C. sinensis and their natural antibacterial capacity at an affordable cost and potential anti-microbial usage in food safety and disinfectant spray formulations.
Copyright (c) 2026 Sharon A Gabriella, Sandheep P N https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Adaptation of sweet cherry and apple phenology to temperature variability in Moroccan orchards using forcing tests and chill models
Rising temperatures in the Mediterranean region threaten fruit trees with high chill requirements, such as sweet cherry and apple by reducing winter chill accumulation, altering phenology and increasing production irregularity. Quantifying cultivar chill/heat requirements is therefore essential to identify cultivars adapted to a particular climate. To assess cultivar adaptation potential by determining the endodormancy release dates and their specific agroclimatic requirements, forcing tests were conducted over three consecutive seasons (2020–2023) on ten sweet cherry and two apple cultivars grown at two major fruit-producing regions in Morocco (Azrou and Imouzzer-Kandar). In addition, the impact of temperature variations on flowering and fruit set rates was evaluated. The results revealed major differences in the dynamic endodormancy release and chill/heat requirements among the studied species/cultivars, these requirements ranged between 662–929 Chill Hours (CH), 432–954 Chill Units (CU), 26.7–56.5 Chill Portions (CP) and 8180–10048 Growing Degree Hours (GDH) for sweet cherry and between 986–1025 CH, 1025–1052 CU, 59.3–61.4 CP and 6982–8617 GDH for apple. Based on these responses, sweet cherry cultivars were classified into three groups: i) low-chill cultivars with variable flowering and reproductive performances, ii) high-chill cultivars with late-flowering and high fruit set and iii) cultivars with balanced chill requirements and moderate flowering performances. In apple, Gala outperformed Top Red in reproductive efficiency. Finally, colder site such Azrou promoted flowering but reduced fruit set, whereas milder Imouzzer-Kandar enhanced vegetative growth and fruit set. Our results provided practical decision support for cultivar selection and site-specific orchard planning under ongoing climate warming.
Copyright (c) 2026 Halima Hajjioui, Ossama Kodad, Meryem Erami, Houssam-eddine Boukhriss, Jamal Charafi, Hakim Outghouliast, EL Hassan Abba, Adnane El Yaacoubi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Hydrological influence on diversity and distribution of weedy grass species in the Hadejia-Nguru Wetland, Nigeria
Wetlands play a crucial role in supporting biodiversity, particularly in semi-arid regions like the Sahel, where they provide vital ecosystem services. This study investigates the taxonomic diversity and distribution of grasses (Poaceae) within the Hadejia-Nguru Wetland, a Ramsar site in northeastern Nigeria. Field surveys were conducted from October 2023 to December 2024 across 12 stratified sites in both flooded and irrigated habitats. Species diversity was analyzed using the Shannon-Wiener diversity index, Simpson’s dominance index and Pielou’s evenness index, while species composition was examined through Detrended Correspondence Analysis (DCA). A total of 46 grass species belonging to 25 genera and four subfamilies were recorded, with Panicoideae emerging as the dominant subfamily. Flooded habitats exhibited a higher Shannon-Wiener index (H′ = 3.52) and lower Simpson’s dominance index (D = 0.036), indicating greater species evenness compared to irrigated fields (H′ = 3.07, D = 0.059). DCA results revealed distinct differences in species composition between habitat types, with hydrophytic species such as Echinochloa stagnina (Retz.) P. Beauv. and Oryza barthii A. Chev. & Roehr. dominating flooded areas. These findings emphasize the influence of hydrological conditions on species distribution and underscore the need for targeted conservation strategies that support both biodiversity and sustainable land use in wetland agroecosystems.
Copyright (c) 2026 Adamu Ibrahim Tahir, Rusly Rosazlina, Bello Abubakar, Maria S Vorontsova https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Arisaema dahaiense H. Li (section Arisaema, Arisaema, Araceae), a new record for the flora of Vietnam
Arisaema dahaiense H. Li is reported here as a new additional species for the flora of Vietnam. This species represents a unique taxon within the genus Arisaema section Arisaema documented in the country. A detailed morphological description, along with illustrations and photographic documentation, is provided to support its identification and taxonomic placement.
Copyright (c) 2025 Bui Hong Quan, Luu Huyen Trang, Luu Hong Truong, Trinh Thi Binh Huyen, Van Hong Thien https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Performance of local coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) germplasm under Assam conditions of the North East region of India
The study was carried out to elucidate the performance of local coconut accessions collected from different parts of Assam in the North East region of India, an experiment was conducted at the Research Centre, ICAR-Central Plantation Crops Research Institute. Observations were recorded on growth, yield, fruit and nut characters and tender nut water and quality of 13 local coconut accessions. The experiment was laid out in 3 replications, with 4 palms per replication. The study showed that accession, KKHC 4 produced the highest nut yield and kernel content, indicating its potential suitability for cultivation in the North East region. Accession KKHC 6 exhibited enhanced fruit size and a higher volume and quality of tender nut water, suggesting its value for both fresh consumption and beverage markets. These findings highlight the necessity for region specific coconut improvement programs and underscore the importance of selecting and promoting locally adapted germplasm.
Copyright (c) 2025 L S Singh, V Niral, G C Acharya, M Chaithra, Alpana Das, Jyoti Roy https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
In vitro screening reveals high-level resistance to a virulent Erwinia amylovora isolate in native Malus sieversii
Fire blight, caused by the bacterium Erwinia amylovora, is a destructive disease that threatens global apple production and the native forests of Malus sieversii in Kazakhstan, the primary progenitor of domesticated apples. To identify sources of genetic resistance, we screened ten native M. sieversii genotypes using an in vitro shoot inoculation assay with a virulent local isolate of E. amylovora. Disease severity was measured as the percentage of lesion length (PLL). Genotype 6.1 exhibited complete resistance (0 % PLL), whereas three other genotypes (1.2, 5.3 and 6.2) were highly resistant. In contrast, genotypes 1.1 and 5.1 were highly susceptible to infection. Molecular screening for sequence-characterised amplified region (SCAR) markers linked to the major fire blight resistance locus, FBF7, revealed that the highly resistant genotype 5.3 was positive for the AE10-375 marker. However, the completely resistant genotype 6.1 and the other highly resistant individuals lacked both FBF7-linked markers. These results demonstrate the presence of the known FBF7 locus and suggest the existence of potentially novel genetic resistance sources in this wild population.
Copyright (c) 2025 Laura Yerbolova, Akbota Rakhatkyzy, Karlygash Aubakirova, Zhibek Bakytzhanova, Ruslan Kryldakov, Nurbol Galiakparov https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0